TimeSys has launched new network-based embedded Linux tools and services for companies designing with Freescale processors, a group it says includes numerous large aerospace, military, industrial, and enterprise customers. The Freescale Linux Component Repository includes kernel patches, drivers, updates for processor revisions, Linux source and binary packages, and reference distributions.

According to TimeSys, Boeing, Corvis, DRC, ITT, Lockheed Martin, Miltec, NASA, Pratt & Whitney, Sycamore Networks, and UT Starcom all use its Eclipse-based TimeStorm tools with Freescale's PowerPC-based processors. The company says its Freescale Component Repository can help these and other customers focus on differentiation rather than on maintaining core Linux functionality. TimeSys will continuously maintain and commercially support all components in the Repository, it says.

The Repository is part of TimeSys's larger “Linux Customization Solutions” (LCS) offering, which includes TimeSys Network services launched last May, as well as Eclipse-based TimeStorm development tools. TimeSys Network services include a Web-based set of automated development, build, and validation tools, as well as an online knowledge base and community of embedded Linux developers.

TimeSys says the new secure, online Repository, combined with its broader LCS offerings, lets developers start with a reference Linux distribution optimized for a specific Freescale processor, then tailor that to meet requirements using Web-based services combined with local Eclipse-based development and testing tools.

Freescale in March joined TimeSys's “OnBoard” program, an initiative aimed at enabling chip and board makers to continuously supply their Linux optimizations for inclusion in TimeSys's commercially support Linux toolkits. TimeSys says its Freescale Repository extends its relationship with Freescale, and that its TimeStorm Linux Development Kits now support nearly 30 Freescale processors across five PowerQUICC and PowerPC chip families.

David Mothersole, CTO of Freescale's Networking and Computing Systems Group, said, “Linux is rapidly becoming an operating system of choice in new embedded device designs using Freescale processors. The relationship we've established with TimeSys provides developers using Freescale processors with a commercial source that supports them in their efforts to take advantage of the flexibility of Linux.”

Michel Genard, executive VP of marketing and business development at TimeSys, said, “The Freescale Linux Component Repository is the latest example of our commitment to support developers in their efforts to tailor Linux, rather than forcing them into a single distribution or a professional services model.

Availability

The Freescale Linux Component Repository is available now on a subscription basis. Additional details are available online.

TimeSys maintains a similar repository for Intel XScale chips.

 
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