Embedded Digital System                             

What is uClinux?

 What is uClinux?
uClinux is a derivative of Linux 2.0 kernel intended for microcontrollers without Memory Management Units (MMUs). 


What is included with uClinux?
On the official distribution CD of uClinux, you receive the uClinux binaries and source code in RPM format to ease installation. Also included are the source code tarballs. In addition, there is a demo version of Eagle CAD, a few datasheets on components tested with uClinux, and a small but functional SuSE 5.3 distribution. This CD includes all the software needed to develop uClinux on a linux workstation. You can order the CD [here]. 


linux vs. uClinux?
Since uClinux was created to support non-MMU microprocessors, multitasking can be tricky. Most user applications that run on top of uClinux, however, will not require multitasking. In addition, most of the binaries and source code for the kernel have been rewritten to tighten-up and slim-down the code base. This all means that the uClinux kernel is much, much smaller than the original Linux 2.0 kernel, while retaining the main advantages of the linux operating system: stability, superior network capability, and excellent file system support.

Common Linux API 
uCkernel < 512 kb 
uCkernel + tools < 900 kb 


Is uClinux a networked OS environment?
uClinux comes equipped with a full TCP/IP stack, as well as support for numerous other networking protocols. Pretty much all the networking protocols are implemented. uClinux is an internet-ready OS perfect for embedded systems. 


Which file systems does uClinux support?
NFS, ext2, MS-DOS, and FAT16/32 are only a handful of the available file systems embraced by uClinux. 


Where can I get it?
You can order the official distribution of uClinux from https://www.uclinux.com/orderdesk/. Alternatively, since uClinux is an Open Source project, you can download the source code [here] 

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