T-Kernel is a new generation of real-time OS that meets the needs of various embedded systems in the 21st century.

 

Based on ITRON technology with a 20-year track record, it was newly developed to handle increasingly sophisticated and complicated embedded systems.

 

Currently, there are various embedded systems ranging from high-performance systems using multi-core processors and 32-bit RISC processors to small systems using 8-bit/16-bit single chip microcomputers.

 

For example, in cars, dozens of processors working together are installed. T-Kernel widely supports all of these various embedded systems with a common architecture.

 

Based on the original standard T-Kernel, T-Kernel family has been developed in a series: MP T-Kernel that supports multiprocessor systems including multi-core processors, μT-Kernel that supports the small system, and the T-Kernel Standard Extension that offers more advanced OS functions.

 

 

■T-Kernel　

T-Kernel is positioned as the standard real-time OS of the T-Engine Project. It is designed for 32-bit processors and supports advanced hardware functions suitable for building large-scale systems such as MMU (Memory Management Units).

 

T-Kernel focuses on the middleware distribution, and is a "Single source code" OS with a single source code in order to improve the portability and reusability of software. The source code is open to the public free of charge based on the T-License. T-Kernel is available for anyone to embed the developed systems within products if a T-License is accepted.

 

 

■T-Kernel Standard Extension　

T-Kernel Standard Extension (TKSE) is software that adds advanced functions to T-Kernel. The basic functions of ITRON specification OS and T-Kernel are not sufficient in high-performance embedded systems, such as PDAs, high-performance cellular phones, and car navigation systems. TKSE offers the processes running in the logical space protected by memory management, and the file management functions for various file systems as subsystems of T-Kernel to support the advanced future applications.

 

Figure: Extending T-Kernel with T-Kernel Standard Extension

 

TKSE source code is currently being released based on a special T-License for TKSE. A sample device driver, and sample application for TKSE were also released.