■MP T-Kernel 
MP T-Kernel is a T-Kernel for multiprocessors and multi-core processors. In recent years, multi-core processors, which incorporate the processor cores into one chip, are released by many companies and have been attracting a lot of attention. MP-T Kernel is an optimized real-time OS for the embedded system with these multi-core processors.
Real-time function is important for OS of the embedded system. Since MP T-Kernel has good compatibility with T-Kernel, popular real-time OS with proven track record, the real-time functions of T-Kernel are usable on many multiprocessors. Moreover, the Standard Extension to extend the function of T-Kernel is developed for both AMP and SMP T-Kernels.
Multiprocessor systems can be divided into two types: AMP (Asymmetric Multiple Processor) and SMP (Symmetric Multiple Processor). AMP assigns specific functions to each processor and implements programs on each CPU accordingly. Its merit is the ease of utilizing the software resources and know-how of existing single processor. SMP dynamically assigns functions to each processor, achieving good utilization of processor resources.
As the embedded systems are diversified, AMP or SMP is selected in accordance with the respective system requirements. Both AMP T-Kernel (Fig. 1) and SMP T-Kernel (Fig. 2) are provided by MP T-Kernel to support various systems.
In addition, support for a mixed model of AMP and SMP in one multi-core processor is being added. For example, real-time processing and programs developed in existing single processors can be executed with AMP while other processing and programs can be executed with SMP by distributing the load (Fig. 3).
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Fig. 3-a. Three cores are allocated to SMP and the remaining one core is allocated to AMP in a four-core multi-core processor. |
Fig. 3-b. Two cores are allocated to SMP and the two other cores are allocated to AMP in a four-core multi-core processor. |
Low-power consumption is also a major challenge in embedded systems. MP T-Kernel supports low-power operation by putting arbitrary processors (core) in dormant state depending on the system state and system load (Fig. 4).
Fig. 4-a.: Low-power operation support of SMP T-Kernel
Fig. 4-b.: Low-power operation support of AMP T-Kernel
MP T-Kernel has been publicly released on the T-Engine Forum website and can be used by anyone who agrees to T-License. In addition, evaluation and verification are currently being carried out in the T-Engine Forum on an MP T-Kernel that supports the mixed model of AMP and SMP and low-power operation. The public release is scheduled for 2010.
