Pentek is shipping a “low-cost” kit for developing software-defined radios (SDRs) compliant with the architecture mandated by the JTRS (joint tactical radio system) for future US military radios. The SCA 2510 kit includes a Linux PC, SDR transceiver on a PCI card, and software tools.

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Db4objects says its dual-licensed object database for embedded applications is the first to support native queries (NQs). Db4o 5.0 allows Java and VB.NET developers to express database queries in native semantics, rather than having to learn and use non-mainstream or string-based APIs such as JDO, OQL, EJBQL, SODA, or SQL, the company says. (more…)

OS News has published a detailed, technical review of a $200 Linux-based PMP (portable media player) with a 3.5-inch TFT display and a 20GB hard drive. The Pontis MX2020 is “the most affordable hard-disk based big-screen PMP on the market today,” according to reviewer Eugenia Loli-Queru. (more…)

Eleven companies today launched a cross-industry consortium chartered to turn embedded Linux into a plug-and-play mobile phone platform comparable to Microsoft's Windows Mobile Smartphone OS, but with greater flexibility and lower costs. The Linux Phone Standards Forum (LiPS) intends to help make Linux a more standardized, interoperable mobile phone OS. (more…)

IBM has published the following technical articles, tutorials, and downloads on its DeveloperWorks website. They cover a range of interesting (though not necessarily embedded) technical topics, primarily related to Linux and open source system development. Some require free registration. Enjoy . . . ! (more…)

Eurotech is readying a rugged DVR (digital video recorder) platform for trains, buses, and other harsh environments. The “Rugged DVR” is based on a passively cooled P133 or Celeron processor, with optional JPEG2000 or MPEG-4 capture/compression, GSM/GPRS (UMTS) radio, gigabit Ethernet, and hi-speed… (more…)

The third-largest NEP (network equipment provider) says MontaVista will offer a Carrier Grade Linux (CGL) distribution optimized for a telecom processor module due to ship early next year. (more…)

IBM and Sony have released Linux extensions and development tools aimed at enabling potential customers to evaluate Cell processor technology. New releases include kernel patches, free and commercial (alpha-release) toolchains and libraries, a software simulator, and open source sample applications. (more…)

Linux has a chance to pervade the mobile phone market, according to an excellent in-depth feature at BusinessWeek. Linux advantages include superior branding potential for carriers, and the flexibility to become their standard OS for phones at multiple pricepoints. (more…)

IBM, Sony, Philips, Novell, and Red Hat have jointly created a patent holding company aimed at increasing Linux use, particularly within consumer electronics. The Open Invention Network (OIN) will acquire patents and license them royalty-free to companies that agree not to enforce their own patents against the Linux operating system and “certain Linux-related applications.”

Initially, the OIN has… (more…)

[Updated Nov. 21] — Eurotech is readying a DVR (digital video recorder) platform for trains and other harsh environments. The “Rugged DVR” is based on a passively cooled P133 or Celeron processor, with optional JPEG2000 or MPEG-4 capture/compression, GSM/GPRS (UMTS) radio, gigabit Ethernet, and USB 2.0 ports. (more…)

Are open source MMC drivers legal? Why do no open source SD/SDIO host-controller drivers exist? These and other interesting legal questions related to industry group-owned intellectual property are contemplated in this LinuxDevices.com guest column by Paul Lever, the cofounder of a… (more…)

Arxceo used embedded Linux to build a small anti-reconnaissance, anti-intrusion device the size of an eyeglasses case. The Ally ip100 can be installed in front of wireless access points or at the edge of 100Mbps networks, where it provides behavior-based intrusion detection and prevention,… (more…)

Macromedia has authorized an India-based embedded software house to distribute its Macromedia Flash Player SDK and Macromedia Flash Lite in embedded and handheld device markets in the US, India, and Asia-Pacific. California Software Company Ltd. (Calsoft) says the deal will help make small-volume Flash projects more economical. (more…)

Norwegian embedded Linux tools and interface software vendor Trolltech has expanded its international distribution channel. NeoMore will resell Qtopia and QT Embedded in France, while Nissin Systems will market Qtopia in Japan. Both companies will also provide first-line local support for Trolltech products as well. (more…)