Using Linux on an embedded VMEbus processor board is not difficult. However, more than fundamental knowledge is required. This document is not a primer on how to fully configure a Linux machine.
In order to understand this HOWTO document it is assumed that you are thoroughly familiar with the following:
If you are uncertain of how to proceed with any of the above it is STRONGLY recommended that you use the links provided to familiarize yourself with all packages. We may not reply to any mail regarding any of the above. Please direct any questions to the appropriate author of the HOWTO or consult the respective hardware manufacturer.
This document describes the installation and use of VMELinux on a Xycom XVME-655 6U VME processor board. Other brands of VME boards that use a Pentium and the Tundra Universe chip should be capable of running VMELinux. Please consult the Board Support Section of the VMELinux web site for tested boards. VMELinux Project Web Site
Operating systems for VMEbus computers are usually Real-time Operating Systems (RTOS) which have high cost and a significant learning curve. In return the RTOS offers quick response to real world events for control of machinery or response to a process.
The VMEbus provides a rugged computer enclosure and interconnection system. Many system integrators require this ruggedness and also need very fast real-time response. However, there are many times when there is little need for real-time response, but the software still needs:
The purpose of VMELinux is to give the VME system integrator another choice in operating systems. Rich in features, high in reliability and low in cost, Linux offers benefits to the embedded computer industry. High cost operating systems economically prohibit the use of VME in many applications. With Linux and the VMELinux drivers, the rugged VMEbus has new possibilities.
The purpose of the VMELinux Project is to:
As VMELinux is tested in the field, we encourage comments about how well or how bad it works. Please feel free to send comments to The VMELinux Project
As we get experience about each brand of VME CPU, we will list the different configurations in this HOWTO. For now we will describe only the Xycom board.
This document's revision is $Revision$, $Date$.
The latest version is always available at Linux VME HOWTO.
Linux Kernel Driver
VMEUtils Program
VMEShell Utilities
This document is Copyright 1997-2002 by John Huggins and the VMELinux Project.
A verbatim copy may be reproduced or distributed in any medium physical or electronic without permission of the author. Translations are similarly permitted without express permission if it includes a notice on who translated it. Commercial redistribution is allowed and encouraged; however please notify The VMELinux Project of any such distributions.
Excerpts from the document may be used without prior consent provided that the derivative work contains the verbatim copy or a pointer to a verbatim copy.
Permission is granted to make and distribute verbatim copies of this document provided the copyright notice and this permission notice are preserved on all copies.
In short, we wish to promote dissemination of this information through as many channels as possible. However, we wish to retain copyright on this HOWTO document, and would like to be notified of any plans to redistribute this HOWTO.