Linux device driver lecture 1 : Host and target setup

Summary

This tutorial focuses on preparing the host and target platforms for writing drivers and kernel modules using the BeagleBone Black. Users are guided through setting up an Ubuntu environment, including updating packages and creating a structured workspace. The video also details the necessary boot images and root file system required for booting the BeagleBone via SD card, emphasizing the installation of Debian images. With clear instructions, it aims to equip viewers with essential knowledge for successful development on their target boards.

Takeaways

• 💻 The course uses a host platform of Ubuntu (preferably 64-bit) for writing drivers and kernel modules.
• 📦 Users may install Ubuntu on a virtual machine if using Windows or macOS.
• 🛠️ The target hardware for this course is the BeagleBone Black (revision A5), but other BeagleBone boards can also be used with some modifications.
• 📥 Essential packages must be installed on the Ubuntu host to avoid compilation issues; commands should be copied from a provided text file.
• 📁 A suggested folder structure includes creating 'workspace', 'ldd', and subfolders for 'custom drivers', 'downloads', 'patches', and 'source'.
• 🗃️ Creating an organized workspace helps manage various packages and kernel modules throughout the course.
• 📤 Boot images and the root file system are necessary for booting the BeagleBone Black via micro SD card.
• 🔄 The first step is to boot using pre-built images before updating the kernel by cross-compiling the kernel source.
• 📥 Users should download the latest Debian image suitable for the BeagleBone Black from the BeagleBoard website.
• 📝 The latest Debian version mentioned in the recording is 9.9, which needs to be placed in the downloads folder.

Q & A

What is the primary operating system used for the exercises in this course?

The primary operating system used for the exercises is Ubuntu, preferably the 64-bit version.

Can users of Windows or Mac participate in this course?

Yes, users of Windows or Mac can install Ubuntu on a virtual machine to participate in the course.

Which specific version of Ubuntu is recommended for this course?

Ubuntu 18.04 64-bit is recommended for this course.

What is the target platform for the kernel modules discussed in the course?

The target platform is the BeagleBone Black, specifically revision A5.

What should users do if they are using other BeagleBone models?

Users can use other models like BeagleBone AI or BeagleBone Wireless, but the kernel modules written in this course are not thoroughly tested on those boards.

What are the first commands to run in the Ubuntu command prompt to prepare the environment?

The first commands are 'sudo apt-get update' followed by additional commands from the attached text file.

What folder structure is recommended for organizing the course materials?

The recommended folder structure includes a main 'workspace' folder with a subfolder 'ldd', which contains 'custom drivers', 'downloads', 'patches', and 'source' folders.

Why are boot images and a root file system necessary for this course?

Boot images and a root file system are necessary to boot the BeagleBone Black via the SD card.

What file systems are recommended for the two partitions on the micro SD card?

The first partition should use FAT16 for boot images, and the second partition should use ext3 or ext4 for the Debian root file system.

Where can users download the latest Debian image for the BeagleBone Black?

Users can download the latest Debian image for the BeagleBone Black from the BeagleBoard website under the 'latest software images' section.