Intellimetrix, a specialist in real-time and embedded software development and training, has introduced a low-cost embedded Linux learning kit. Aptly named the Embedded Linux Learning Kit (ELLK), the kit comprises an ARM-based SBC (single-board computer), cables, power supply, Linux OS, development tools, and comprehensive… documentation.

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According to Intellimetrix founder and principal consultant Doug Abbott, ELLK offers a “practical, self-paced, hands-on way to get started in the exciting world of embedded Linux. Unlike so-called development kits — a single board computer (SBC), a power supply, cables, and a CD with a random collection of Linux software — the ELLK is specifically designed to teach embedded Linux.”

Abbott says the kit includes a comprehensive 70-plus page manual that covers:

• Hardware setup and configuration
• Building and installing a kernel image and a root filesystem in flash
• Basic application development and debugging
• Accessing hardware with and without device drivers
• Networking, and more

The ELLK is based on an ARM9 processor-based SBC and comes preloaded with a Linux kernel. Features of the board are said to include:

• Atmel AT91RM9200 ARM9 processor clocked at 180 MHz (200 MIPS preformance)
• 64 MB SDRAM
• 32 MB NAND flash
• 16 MB of “parallel flash”
• 16 KB bootloader EEPROM
• SD/MMC socket
• Parallel LCD interface
• 10/100 Ethernet port
• USB 2.0 host and device ports
• IrDA transceiver
• RS-232 serial port for debugging
• On-board temperature sensor
• User-programmable LEDs and switches.

An LCD graphics display add-on is available as an option.

In addition to the SBC and documentation, the kit includes a “brick” power supply, serial and Ethernet crossover cables, and a software CD containing cross-development tools, 2.6.13 kernel source, an Eclipse-based IDE, and “tutorial” code samples, Abbott says.

“This is the kind of tool I wish I had had when I was climbing that steep Linux learning curve a few years back,” comments Abbott. “The sample code has been written with clarity and readability in mind and the exercises move in a logical progression where each step builds on the ones before.”

Availability

The kit is currently priced at $349, which includes free USPS Priority shipping within the U.S. for orders placed before October 1, 2006. Further details are available on Intellimetrix's website, here.

Note: Abbott also serves as editor of this site's sister site, WindowsForDevices.com.

 
This article was originally published on LinuxDevices.com and has been donated to the open source community by QuinStreet Inc. Please visit LinuxToday.com for up-to-date news and articles about Linux and open source.