“The Great Second Coming for Linux might just be in the realm of
embedded devices. Already analysts are predicting that
Internet-accessing smart devices will outnumber desktop computers
in a few short years.Linux has an advantage in that area when
compared to a platform such as Windows because of its simpler
process model, low-memory footprint, and easier development
environment. Some vendors have already started the move from
proprietary realtime OSs to Linux. One example is Lynx Systems,
nowcalled Lynux Systems, with its BlueCat Linux. However, most
analysts don’t expect embedded Linux products to emerge for a
while.”
“It won’t take long to see some of the early birds though. One
company is already hard at work, creating a useful product that
falls in line with its marketing segment and long-term plans.
Longtime terminal manufacturer Neoware has jumped into the Linux
fray with a new thin-client device that runs its own flavor of
embedded Linux. Neoware, originally called HDS, used to make text
terminals, then network computers and Windows terminals. The
company continues to focus on its core thin-client desktop for the
business market with its latest creation, the EON running
NeoLinux.”
“That two-fisted device from Neoware comes in a
small-footprint box about the size of a textbook just barely larger
than the mainboard itself. Inside is a National Semiconductor Geode
processor, a highly integrated chip with a 233 MHz Pentium
core, a graphics adapter, a PCI controller, a network
controller, an audio controller, and a serial and parallel port
controller — all in a single package. The Geode obviates the need
for separate chips for each of those features and thus makes for a
more affordable system that saves on power consumption as
well.”