Paradise Datacom has chosen BlueCat Linux to power its next-generation satellite data modems, citing BlueCat's comprehensive set of embedded tools, the flexibility of its open-source software, and the upgrade path provided by application binary interface (ABI) compatibility with LynuxWorks' LynxOS hard… real-time operating system (RTOS) as key factors.

Click for larger view of a Paradise Datacom satellite modem

Paradise Datacom says BlueCat Linux will be used to provide advanced IP connectivity in its satellite modems, typically deployed by telecommunications operators to avoid terrestrial network congestion and supply guaranteed bandwidth for critical applications.

The availability of a comprehensive set of embedded tools was a major factor in the selection of BlueCat Linux, according to LynuxWorks. BlueCat Linux's tools include VisualLynux, an extension of Microsoft Visual Studio IDE that enables developers to build BlueCat Linux applications in a Windows host environment, and Spyker, which LynuxWorks describes as “the first dynamically instrumented system trace analyzer,” which can be used to understand what is executing in a system over time, track down elusive application bugs, and fine tune the performance of embedded systems.

Another factor was the open model of a Linux OS. “By leveraging the Linux model, BlueCat Linux provides us the ability to easily integrate third-party software into the design of our satellite data modems, helping us to reduce the length and cost of our design processes,” said Robert MacKinlay, manager of research and development for Paradise Datacom.

LynuxWorks says a third key factor in the selection was the risk-free path to real-time performance offered by BlueCat Linux thanks to its ABI compatibility with LynxOS. This will enable Paradise to run its Linux application code unmodified on LynxOS should real-time capabilities become a requirement.

 
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