Rajant Corp.'s Linux-powered BreadCrumbs are small, rugged, battery-powered, self-configuring, mobile wireless mesh repeaters/routers capable of instantly establishing meshed 802.11b wireless networks. They're aimed at military, police, fire, paramedic, rescue, and emergency-service uses, and can be deployed on moving vehicles on the… (more…)

Drew Technologies has used embedded Linux to build what it calls the “world's first open technology automotive scanning tool.” The ScanDAQ (“data acquisition”) is a ruggedized handheld device designed to run J2534-compliant software, enabling mechanics to reflash or modify automotive ECUs (electronic control units). (more…)

The Linux-powered WIP2 WiFi phone from Zultys Technologies looks, acts, and operates like a conventional cordless office telephone — but that's where the similarities end. (more…)

Alien Technology used embedded Linux to build a multi-protocol RFID reader that it says exploits features in the latest EPC (electronic product code) specifications, including DRM (dense reader mode). (more…)

Foreword — The “Mongoose” — a Linux-powered robot submarine built by students from the Georgia Institute of Technology — competed with 18 other student-built subs on August 6th and 7th, 2005, in an attempt to successfully navigate through a field of obstacles and complete its programmed mission. (more…)

Devon IT Inc. has embedded an “optimized” version of Red Hat Linux in a line of low-cost thin-client terminals ranging from the entry-level Ntavo NTA 6010A priced at $149, to the $599 NTA 6015L that boasts an integrated 15-inch, 1024×668 TFT LCD screen. The company has avoided the common practice of maximizing features and charging high prices, in favor of offering the most… (more…)

Korean handheld vendor Gamepark has announced a new portable media player and gaming device based on embedded Linux. The GPX2-F100 features dual ARM9 processors, USB 2.0, a 3.5-inch color LCD, media playback software, and support for both native and emulated games. A Linux SDK (software development kit) will be available when the device ships, Gamepark says. (more…)

This whitepaper from VDC examines organizational changes at Freescale relating to wholly owned subsidiary Metrowerks. It confirms that Metrowerks will realign itself strategically with its parent company, with the Metrowerks brand replaced by the “CodeWarrior” brand. After detailing these and other changes, the paper offers VDC's analysis and perspective. (more…)

This whitepaper from Vibren Technologies discusses the use of Macromedia Flash as a technology for creating rich, portable, maintainable, and consistent user interfaces across multiple models and generations of embedded devices, and outlines system requirements and porting issues. (more…)

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A 1990's Linux start-up that resurfaced as a Linux system management software vendor is now shipping a Linux-powered device aimed at simplifying Linux system administration. The Intrepid M is the first hardware product from Levanta — formerly LinuxCare — and the “world's first Linux management appliance,” according to the company. (more…)

ThinLinx will launch a line of Linux-based thin-clients that access Ubuntu Linux desktops and commercial Linux applications hosted on ThinLinx's grid network. The Hot-E initially offers Firebird database, Compiere and OpenCRX ERP/CRM software, E-GroupWare, and LinuxCanada POS/accounting software. (more…)

NASA has reportedly contracted the University of Queensland, Australia, to collaborate on a modified version of Linux for use in the Agency's $18M Reconfigurable Scalable Computing (RSC) project. The project aims to increase the speed and flexibility of computers used in planetary rovers, mining vehicles, cameras, and sensors. (more…)

Last week, LinuxDevices.com profiled the Aeronix Zipit, a $99 instant messaging device marketed to teenagers, but appropriated by Linux hackers for a variety of embedded projects. Today, we're pleased to offer a followup conversation with Ralph Heredia, who conceived and led the creation of the Zipit. (more…)

Aeronix used Linux to build a $99 instant messenger appliance aimed at keeping kids from tying up the family PC while chatting with friends. Naturally, hackers soon appropriated the device for other duties, such as remotely controlling/monitoring Sony's Aibo robot. (more…)