I want to learn the basics of embedded linux. To do this I am assuming that I need to go and buy some sort of hardware board and have the linux kernel code.
I have no idea where to start with this and any tips/pointers would be most welcome. Ideally I would like people to point out a full system (e.g. this "board kit with linux" with these "manuals" are very good).
Also cost is a factor as I am doing this personally not as a business : )
Thanks very much, Code
You will need:
1 - Boards: I started with a beagleboard. A new beaglebone black is available now. There's a large support community for the beagles; many howto pages here and here, and ready to install images. You can also build the image yourself (step 3). These boards have most of the peripherals that you may need to play with, and can also be used as extra computer !
2 - Books: As Mali noted, Linux is a fast moving object, but in the early phases of learning you will need a solid reference. I'd suggest "Embedded Linux Primer: A Practical Real-World Approach" as it has many examples and takes you step-by-step. There's also "Building Embedded Linux Systems".
3 - The firmware: a) toolchain, b) root filesystem and c) kernel image. "Buildroot" is the easiest to start with. Openembedded and Yocto have a very steep learning curve. "Embedded Linux Primer: A Practical Real-World Approach" has some examples on how to use buildroot.
You have some cool boards (not expensive) at Olimex Also, Armadeus is a nice project to begin with.
It really depends of what you want to do and what you like, e.g contributing to Replicant should be very fun too. You can also find a cheap router supported by openWrt. In other words, find a little project which you'll have fun to hack on, and choose hardware after.
In books, I think "Building embedded Linux Systems" is a must have, but Linux is a fast moving target, so books may be outdated.
For learning the basics, I suggest Buildroot to build your first system, it's simple compared to Open Embedded or Yocto like build systems.
Happy Hacking,
I just started on embedded linux. I just got a job where I work in firmware for a series of products.
I am reading this book "Embedded Linux Primer: A Practical Real-World Approach".
Whatever is implemented in the products is present in this book.
I strongly recommend this book. It is awesome.
For me, the first thing you should do before you dive in is read this book. The book is a goldmine.
来源：https://stackoverflow.com/questions/17966697/tips-for-learning-embedded-linux