No Starch Press has published a book about integrating embedded hardware, Linux-based operating systems, and custom applications to create Linux devices. “Linux Appliance Design,” by four authors, is the first book to tackle both the hardware and software components of device design, the publisher claims.

(Click for larger view of Tux and the toaster)

Included topics include:

• Separation of user interfaces from daemons via a Runtime Access library
• Giving user interfaces run time access to configuration, status, and statistics
• Adding professional network management capabilities to applications
• Using SNMP and building a MIB
• Building a web-based appliance and a command line interface (CLI)
• Building a framebuffer interface that uses an infrared control as input
• Managing logs and alarms on an appliance

In the book's introduction, the authors define “appliance” as a “device designed to primarily perform a single function,” citing toasters, ovens, and dishwashers as typical appliances. But, the authors note, “traditional appliances are no longer so simple. What used to be electrified but still mechanical devices, such as vacuum cleaners, are now not only electronic, but include processors, circuit boards, and sophisticated user interfaces. With these changes comes the need to run an operating system on the appliance to manage the new features. Linux is a natural fit for this because it is low cost… and open source… However, the real place where Linux fits in is with the new types of appliances that are being designed. Digital video recorders (DVRs) were unheard of just a few years ago, but the first and most popular DVR appliance, the TiVo, runs on Linux, as do many other home networking and entertainment appliances.”

The book comes with a CD containing BSD-licensed software for a prototype home alarm system appliance.

Publisher Bill Pollock stated, “Linux is very well suited for use in appliances, but it's difficult to find engineers who know how to combine the hardware and software. This book distills the work and experience of four engineers into one very compelling volume.”

The back cover adds, “You'll see for yourself why Linux is the embedded system of choice for low-cost development and a fast time to market.

Availability

Linux Appliance Design: A Hands-On Guide to Building Linux Appliances by Bob Smith, John Hardin, Graham Phillips, and Bill Pierce is shipping now. The 356-page book is available direct from NoStarch, priced at $60 in dead trees format. It may also be purchased as an electronically delivered PDF for $36. Together, the paper and PDF versions cost $72.

A sample chapter on infrared remote controls is also available, along with a table of contents.

 
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