5/18/2010 -
Today Datalight unveiled a new whitepaper describing details of the company’s process for booting an embedded Linux system directly from NAND flash. Often considered problematic by OEMs in the past, booting from NAND is quickly becoming a requirement for smartphones and other embedded systems as consumers demand smaller, less expensive devices. As OEMs look for ways to save cost and space, many are eliminating the expensive and bulky NOR parts formerly used to boot the system. However NAND presents challenges in reliability and durability that call into question its suitability for booting a sophisticated operating system like Linux.
“We wrote this whitepaper to guide customers through one of the only reliable methods we’ve found for booting Linux from NAND,” said Ken Whitaker, Datalight Director of Engineering. “The sophisticated bad block management and wear-leveling in FlashFX Tera render NAND reliable for booting Linux.”
Datalight also recently released its Datalight Linux Bootloader, a sample project designed to further simplify the Linux bootstrapping process. It was originally built for the LogicPD MX31-lite platform and can be easily adapted for use on other hardware. The Datalight Linux Bootloader is included in new versions of Datalight Reliance Nitro, Datalight’s high performance reliable file system for Linux.
The whitepaper, entitled Bootstrapping Linux from NAND Flash with FlashFX Tera and Reliance Nitro, is available now from http://www.logic.nl/RegisterForDownload.aspx?file=Datalight_Bootstrapping_Linux_from_NAND_Flash
More about Datalight’s Flash File System for Linux
FlashFX Tera supports the full range of flash technologies including NAND, NOR, and MLC NAND flash in a single driver. Its patented wear-leveling and bad block management extend the useful life of devices using flash. While FlashFX Tera can be used with virtually any file system, pairing it with Reliance Nitro provides an optimized data storage software stack to simplify system development.
The Reliance family of file systems and FlashFX family of flash media managers comprise the Datalight flash file system solution. Reliance was designed from the ground up for high reliability applications. Dynamic Transaction Point™ technology gives developers full control over performance and data protection characteristics, protecting users from file system corruption, even after unexpected system interruption. Embedded applications can benefit from faster boot times that remain consistent for the life of the product, regardless of disk size. FlashFX™ Tera features pre-written support for over 300 flash parts, works with virtually any NAND controller, and features wear leveling, bad block management, and background compaction for unrivaled performance.
About Datalight:
Datalight develops technologies that manage data in embedded devices, making other companies' products more reliable. Our software frees customers and partners from constraints and worry by ensuring reliability, performance and flexibility. Since 1983, Datalight's focus on portable, flexible solutions has enabled OEMs including Canon, Intel and Symbol to save money, reduce development time and get to market faster. These accomplishments have earned Datalight a reputation as a provider of reliable, compact and cost-effective software solutions that are backed by a commitment to customer service and satisfaction.
About Logic Technology
Founded in 1993, headquartered in Panningen The Netherlands, Logic Technology has become a leader in Europe's embedded market. The unique combination of high-quality products, support and consultancy services is most appreciated by embedded developers. It's this All-Inclusive concept that enables developers to focus on their own key tasks and provides them with a sparring partner in every phase of their project!
Logic Technology’s product offering includes
Code Quality Measurement solutions, such as static code analysis, test automation and MISRA®-C Checkers. Logic’s
Boards & Solutions specialists offer solutions such as boundary scan, computer modules and board supplies. In the field of
Development Tools Logic offers a variety of ARM® & Intel® Tools, debuggers and Eclipse IDE solutions. When it concerns
Software Components Logic Technology has specialist in flash device managers, file systems and UEFI BIOS & bootloaders in house. These time saving products are complemented by a strong focus on technical support, (in depth) Technology Courses, Training and Consultancy Services.