LynuxWorks is shipping BlueCat Linux 5.0, its first production release based on Linux kernel 2.6. LynuxWorks calls the release “the industry's first commercially available embedded Linux distribution based on Linux 2.6,” although SnapGear earlier released a free embedded Linux distribution based on 2.6 which it… claimed represented the “world's first production Linux system powered by the 2.6 kernel.”

The Linux 2.6 kernel provides improved real-time performance, easier porting to new computers, support for large memory models, support for microcontrollers, and an improved I/O system, according to LynuxWorks.

LynuxWorks credits ISO 9001:2000 testing with enabling it to achieve high levels of quality and performance, and to release a 2.6-based product quickly. In addition to a rigorous testing phase, the company says it put the release through an extensive beta testing phase that 300 customers and companies too part in.

“If the success of our Beta program is any indication, we expect our latest version of BlueCat to play an integral role in driving the next wave of embedded Linux adoption,” said Dr. Inder Singh, chairman and CEO of LynuxWorks.

Bob Morris, vice president of sales and marketing for LynuxWorks, said, “Over the past 15 years, we have developed an extensive suite of tests to qualify our embedded software products prior to public release.”

Mark Muri, an independent software developer currently contracting with Qualcomm's Wireless Business Solutions Division, said, “When I evaluate new products, things like speed in porting applications are always top of mind. I have been impressed with LynuxWorks.”

Commercial availability

BlueCat Linux 5.0 is available now with licenses starting at $8,449. LynuxWorks also sells development tools. Board support packages for x86/Intel IA-32 are available now, with other platforms available during the following months, according to LynuxWorks.

 
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