LynuxWorks has revised its commercial embedded Linux distribution, and updated the Linux application binary interface (ABI) in its proprietary RTOS (real-time operating system). BlueCat Linux 5.4 is based on a 2.6.13 kernel, for improved determinism and lower latency, while LynxOS 4.2's ABI is based on glibc 2.2.93.

BlueCat Linux 5.4

BlueCat Linux targets a range of embedded applications, from small consumer devices to large multi-CPU systems. In addition to a more recent kernel, the version 5.4 release uses an updated GNU toolchain.

LynuxWorks says that “initial” testing suggests that BlueCat 5.4 offers average interrupt response times three times lower than the previous release. Average context switch times are said to be nine times faster. Additionally, worst-case performance spikes have been reduced significantly, the company says.

Additional touted features include:

• Preemptible kernel allows suspension of an executing process for the sake of another, higher-priority process
• Low-latency scheduler increases determinism
• Improved POSIX threading support improves compatibility across different architectures, as well as LynxOS compatibility
• POSIX timers for applications requiring high throughput or fast response times

Additionally, BlueCat Linux 5.4 is available with an Eclipse-based “Luminosity” IDE/debugger and “SpyKer” RTOS profiler. Both tools support LynxOS, in addition to BlueCat Linux.

LynxOS 4.2

The newest release of the company's POSIX-compliant LynxOS RTOS includes an updated “Linux ABI” based on glibc 2.2.93. Thus, dynamically linked Linux binaries compiled against this version of the GNU C Libraries can run on LynxOS “as if they were native LynxOS applications,” LynuxWorks says.

LynuxWorks first added a Linux ABI in 2002, after working for three years on the technology. It claims to be unique among RTOS vendors in offering a Linux ABI layer, although FSMLabs, Sysgo, and Jaluna also offer products for those interested in combining Linux and real-time applications on the same system. Sun, meanwhile, announced plans in 2004 to create a Linux ABI for Solaris.

Additional new features in LynxOS 4.2 include support for more RAM (up to 1GB), gnutools 3.2.2, and support for SATA and PCI Express.

“Making the development tools compatible with both BlueCat and LynxOS is critical,” Day said. “In such a model, users do not need to purchase new tools or learn new skills in order to cross from open-source to hard real-time development, if and when they choose to do so.”

Availability

LynxOS 4.2, LynuxWorks 5.4, Luminosity, and SpyKer are available now. Pricing was not disclosed.

 
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