What is Embedded Linux?

The demand for faster, efficient, and high-performing computers is increasing, the dimensions of the form factors that carry them forward decrease.

These days, the IT industry and engineers are constantly working on challenging tasks to consolidate more powerful computers into and onto considerable smaller chassis and printed circuit boards; To fulfil the growing demand for more reliable, smaller, robust, energy-efficient, and cost-effective computer systems.

It is why we see the more innovative and lesser size, weight, power, and cost consuming systems every time in the embedded computer system market.

Let's dive into this very world.

Linux systems help to make embedded systems more efficient and effective.

Embedded Linux

Linux is like any other operating system, including Windows, iOS, or Android; Linux can include graphical UIs, fully functional desktop apps like other operating systems. You might not know, but Linux is the second choice right after Windows for desktop pcs.

Linux is way more valuable than an operating system because of its open-source availability. Source codes of Linux and other components are available online and free to use; Anyone can freely view them and make adjustments to the codes to use in their ways.

Embedded Linux can be explained as a Linux operating system or kernel designed for embedded systems and devices. Embedded Linux uses the same kernel, but it can differ from other regular operating systems. Linux can be efficiently designed for any sized embedded system minimal than others, thus taking less processing power and energy with all necessary features and functionalities.

You might know or not, but you are already using Linux in one way or another. Linux is being used in many types of devices as software. Let's take a general example; the Android OS from Google Inc. is based on Linux and a kind of Embedded Linux designed for mobile devices. Smart TV, iPads, car navigation systems are other examples of Embedded Linux. Some examples of small size embedded Linux systems:

ETLinux: A complete Linux distribution designed to run on small industrial computers.
LEM: A small (<8 MB) multi-user, networked Linux version that runs on 386s.
LOAF: "Linux On A Floppy" distribution that runs on 386s.
uClinux: Linux for systems without MMUs.
uLinux: Tiny Linux distribution that runs on 386s.
ThinLinux: Primarily for camera servers, X-10 controllers, MP3 players

Advantages of Embedded Linux

As you read in this article, Linux is being used in many different places, and embedded Linux is a part of every other electronic we use; Which proves that embedded Linux has something great to offer. Embedded Linux is compact than other operating systems and provides the same functionalities and requirements for embedded components. Some common Embedded Linux advantages are-

• Free to Use
• Open Source
• Low development cost and time
• Wider support for development
• Highly Flexible & Customizable

In Addition, Most Developers use Linux for their regular uses that making it familiar to work with.

The Embedded system industry is foreseen to grow swiftly and driven by potential tech developments include virtual reality, augmented reality, artificial intelligence, deep learning, machine learning, and IoT. Embedded Linux will be the main component of these upcoming technologies to make them more efficient and accurate. We already are using embedded systems with Linux and the future is ready for more.