Building and Deploying Embedded Linux Systems
Requirements for Running Linux on Embedded Systems
When tasked with building Linux for a specific board, several components are essential:
"My boss has just given me a board. And he says to me, build Linux and make it run on this board for me."
Toolchains, Bootloaders, Kernels, and Root File Systems
Toolchain: A set of programming tools necessary for developing software for the target system.
"You need a tool chain. You need something that's gonna compile code for you for your target system."
Bootloader: Initiates the system from power-on and prepares the way for the operating system to start.
"You need a bootloader. So the bootloader is the thing which from power on takes you to the point where you can run Linux."
Kernel: A customized version of Linux tailored for the specific hardware and board.
"You need a kernel. You need something to you need to get a a version of Linux which is customized for your particular hardware and board."
Device Tree: Describes the hardware to the kernel, ensuring proper function.
"You need a device tree to make it work."
Board Support Packages (BSPs)
These packages include the necessary drivers, bootloaders, and other software components to support a specific hardware platform.
Device Trees and Their Importance
Device trees are critical for informing the kernel about the hardware configuration, ensuring that all components work harmoniously.
For more details on the software aspects and hardware options, visit Software Aspects of Embedded Linux and Hardware Options for Embedded Linux.