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uClinux -- Linux on Microcontrollers
(Last updated: Oct. 29, 1999)

uClinux is a derivative of the Linux 2.x kernel intended for microcontrollers without Memory Management Units (MMUs). Pronounced "you-see-linux", the name uClinux comes from combining the greek letter "mu" and the english capital "C". "Mu" stands for "micro", and the "C" is for "controller". uClinux was first ported to the Motorola MC68328 DragonBall Integrated Microprocessor. Since then, uClinux has grown exponentially, as more and more MMU-less chips receive their own ports. The first target system to successfully boot is the 3Com PalmPilot using a TRG SuperPilot Board with a custom boot-loader created specifically for our Linux/PalmPilot port.

Much of the development resources and funding for uClinux are provided by Lineo, Inc. As with all ports (distributions) of Linux, uClinux free software under the GNU Public License.

Ported Microcontrollers and Microprocessors
  • Motorola DragonBall (M68EZ328), M68328, M68EN322, ColdFire, QUICC (Quad Integrated Communications Controller)
  • ARM7TDMI
  • MC68EN302
  • Axis ETRAX
  • Intel i960
  • PRISMA
  • Atari 68k
. . . and more all the time!

Linux vs. uClinux?

Since uClinux was created to support non-MMU microprocessors, multitasking can be tricky. Most user applications that run on top of uClinux, however, will not require multitasking. In addition, most of the binaries and source code for the kernel have been rewritten to tighten-up and slim-down the code base. This all means that the uClinux kernel is much, much smaller than the original Linux 2.0 kernel, while retaining the main advantages of the Linux operating system: stability, superior network capability, and excellent file system support.

Key features of uClinux:
  • Common Linux API
  • uCkernel < 512 KB
  • uCkernel + tools < 900 KB
Is uClinux a networked OS environment?

uClinux comes equipped with a full TCP/IP stack, as well as support for numerous other networking protocols. Pretty much all the networking protocols are implemented. uClinux is an Internet-ready OS perfect for embedded systems.

Which file systems does uClinux support?

NFS, ext2, MS-DOS, and FAT16/32 are only a handful of the available file systems embraced by uClinux.



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Breaking New Ground: The Evolution of Linux Clustering
With a platform comprising a complete Linux distribution, enhanced for clustering, and tailored for HPC, Penguin Computing¿s Scyld Software provides the building blocks for organizations from enterprises to workgroups to deploy, manage, and maintain Linux clusters, regardless of their size.

Data Monitoring with NightStar LX
Unlike ordinary debuggers, NightStar LX doesn¿t leave you stranded in the dark. It¿s more than just a debugger, it¿s a whole suite of integrated diagnostic tools designed for time-critical Linux applications to reduce test time, increase productivity and lower costs. You can debug, monitor, analyze and tune with minimal intrusion, so you see real execution behavior. And that¿s positively illuminating.

Virtualizing Service Provider Networks with Vyatta
This paper highlights Vyatta's unique ability to virtualize networking functions using Vyatta's secure routing software in service provider environments.

High Availability Messaging Solution Using AXIGEN, Heartbeat and DRBD
This white paper discusses a high-availability messaging solution relying on the AXIGEN Mail Server, Heartbeat and DRBD. Solution architecture and implementation, as well as benefits of using AXIGEN for this setup are all presented in detail.

Understanding the Financial Benefits of Open Source
Will open source pay off? Open source is becoming standard within enterprises, often because of cost savings. Find out how much of a financial impact it can have on your organization. Get this methodology and calculator now, compliments of JBoss.

Embedded Hardware and OS Technology Empower PC-Based Platforms
The modern embedded computer is the jack of all trades appearing in many forms.

Data Management for Real-Time Distributed Systems
This paper provides an overview of the network-centric computing model, data distribution services, and distributed data management. It then describes how the SkyBoard integration and synchronization service, coupled with an implementation of the OMG¿s Data Distribution Service (DDS) standard, can be used to create an efficient data distribution, storage, and retrieval system.

7 Advantages of D2D Backup
For decades, tape has been the backup medium of choice. But, now, disk-to-disk (D2D) backup is gaining in favor. Learn why you should make the move in this whitepaper.

 

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