Linux has long run on PC platforms. Recently, Linux has gained support for many of the popular microcontroller, DSP, and general purpose processor architectures, making it a realistic off the shelf solution for embedded systems. If you need video support, internet connectivity, remote access, or USB services in your design, Linux may provide your project significant value. These days there are about as many Linux distributions to choose from as there are microcontrollers, so how should you choose? Many times, manufacturers will provide a Linux board support package to entice you to buy the development hardware or microcontroller they manufacture. Analog Devices has a large Linux community based around the uCLinux distribution for its Blackfin DSP controllers. TI also offers instructions on how to build your own kernel for the OMAP DSP/ARM processor, and also has significant support from 3rd party vendors. Below we have listed some popular Linux distributions and resources to help with making decisions about which hardware to choose, which Linux distribution is best for the platform, and how to develop Linux modules.
Popular Embedded Linux DistributionsuClinux -- a derivative of Linux specifically for microprocessors which do not provide Memory Management Units (MMUs). Supports a growing list of processors including: Analog Devices Blackfin, Motorola DragonBall (M68EZ328), M68328, M68EN322, ColdFire, QUICC; ARM7TDMI; MC68EN302; Axis ETRAX; Intel i960; PRISMA; Atari 68k;
Wind River Linux -- Wind River offers a
General Purpose Platform Linux distribution with optional
Real-time Core add-on. It also offers the following "Platform" Linux distributions aimed at specific vertical-market applications:
Mobile Internet Devices (based on Intel Atom architecture),
Infotainment,
Network Equipment, and Consumer Devices
Additional Embedded Linux Project ResourcesA list of Embedded Linux Distributions
