Foreword: Copyrighted content needs protection from source through playback in digital delivery systems, meaning that embedded devices will need to implement digital rights management (DRM). In this whitepaper, Tony Walters of Certicom explains the importance of — and issues relating to — implementing DRM in embedded systems and devices. (more…)

Realm Systems is taking orders for a tiny, loss-leader-priced Linux server that lets users carry a secure computing environment with them. Black Dog attaches via USB to Linux, Windows, or Mac PCs, commandeering the host's KVM (keyboard/video/mouse) functions and running X-based apps on its graphics subsystem. (more…)

Jaluna, maker of OSware embedded virtual infrastructure software, Tuesday named Peter Richards its new chief executive officer. Richards replaces co-founder Michel Gien, who will continue as executive vice president of corporate development. (more…)

A German company selling CompactFlash modules containing software that turns commodity PC hardware into Linux-based storage appliances has introduced an iSCSI version of the product. (more…)

First Technology's newest offering is the FGA-60, a Linux-based multimedia display controller that outputs still pictures and video clips (plus audio) to single or multiple CRTs, flat-panels, and TVs. (more…)

The UK-based maker of Foundry Linux and originator of the real-time CAN protocol (rtcan) has renamed itself from Hypercube Systems Ltd. to Embedded Software Foundry Ltd. and is intensifying its focus on “industrial software engineering.” The company offers development services based on Foundry Linux, rtcan, and other industrial/embedded software technologies. (more…)

IBM researchers have prototyped a personal computing paradigm they believe could “change the way computers are built and used.” The SoulPad Project aims to decouple computer “bodies” (CPUs, I/O devices, etc.) and computing “souls” (OSes and applications), allowing users to transport souls on mobile devices such as cell phones, iPods, and USB storage devices. (more…)

First Technology's newest offering is the FGA-60, a Linux-based multimedia display controller that outputs still pictures and video clips (plus audio) to single or multiple CRTs, flat-panels, and TVs. (more…)

Mobile phones represent the greatest opportunity yet for embedded Linux, writes MontaVista product marketing manager Jacob Lehrbaum in a whitepaper published this month in EE Times Asia. The paper suggests reasons Linux might achieve dominance in phones, which Lehrbaum believes are evolving into the client computing devices of the future. (more…)

Axiomtek's newest panel PC features an 8.4-inch LCD and internal PC/104 expansion for extended functionality. The GOT-1840T supports embedded Linux, and is packaged in a rugged, fanless design suitable for harsh industrial environments, according to the company. (more…)

Video Without Boundaries (VWB) has updated its convergent media player hardware design, and partnered with SageTV on a Linux-based software stack. The MediaReady 5000 will offer PVR (personal video recording), DVD/CD playback and recording, Internet access, and other functions, and will reach retail channels this month,… (more…)

As many as 150,000 individuals — as well as 8,000 organizations, governments, foundations, groups and businesses around the world — are expected to contribute to and comment on the revised version of the GNU General Public License. The draft is sure to cause plenty of argument and controversy, writes eWeek's Peter Galli. (more…)

Oregan Networks is shipping a Linux multimedia software stack for a mini-ITX-based hardware reference design from Toshiba. The stack provides IPTV, VOD (video on demand), and PVR (personal video recorder) functions, runs on MontaVista Linux, and targets “convergent vertical market media devices,” the… (more…)

eCosCentric has released an eCos development kit for a new evaluation board from KwikByte. The eCosPro Developer's Kit supports the KB9202, an inexpensive SBC (single-board computer) powered by a 180MHz ARM9 processor. (more…)

ABI Research reports that a group of 20 RFID vendors has formed a “patent pool” consortium with the intention of offering easier access to RFID intellectual property. Existing industry groups that license MPEG and DVD technology are said to have provided the model for the new consortium, according to ABI. (more…)