LynuxWorks Updates BlueCat Embedded Linux for Improved Performance and Easier Development of Open Source Applications

As part of its ongoing dedication to open source developers, LynuxWorks, Inc., today announced the general availability of BlueCat Linux 5.4, an update of the company's next-generation embedded Linux operating system that supports an updated Linux kernel and a new GNU toolchain. The new product combines the flexibility and cost benefits of open-source software with LynuxWorks' unmatched expertise in developing stable, commercial-grade embedded operating systems and offering detailed technical support for embedded developers.

BlueCat Linux is an implementation of the Linux model enhanced for use in a wide array of embedded systems, from small consumer devices to large-scale, multi-CPU systems. LynuxWorks has improved upon BlueCat with its newest release by supporting Linux kernel 2.6.13, which results in improved performance, along with an updated GNU toolchain, which facilitates development and execution of embedded Linux applications.

Initial performance figures indicate that average interrupt response times are down by three times and average context switch times have been reduced by nine times showing a large performance leap over the previous 2.6 kernel. A marked improvement in determinism has also been observed with worst-case performance spikes having been reduced significantly.

"BlueCat Linux 5.4 represents LynuxWorks' latest efforts to provide open source developers with the most current Linux features available," said Robert Day, vice president of marketing for LynuxWorks. "We were the first to introduce an embedded Linux product based on the 2.6 kernel. With this latest release, we not only continue to blaze the trail in the embedded Linux market, more importantly we are making development of applications simpler for our customers."

BlueCat Linux 5.4 offers the flexibility of open-source software that leverages the Linux model and extends developers' investment by providing a simple path to migrate to real-time, deterministic performance. Additionally, BlueCat Linux 5.4 development tools, the Eclipse-based Luminosity IDE and debugger and SpyKer, the unique RTOS profiler, support both BlueCat Linux and the LynxOS real-time operating system.

"Making the development tools compatible with both BlueCat and LynxOS is critical," Day said. "In such a model, users do not need to purchase new tools or learn new skills in order to cross from open-source to hard real-time development, if and when they choose to do so."

Availability and Pricing

BlueCat Linux 5.4 is available immediately from LynuxWorks. Also available with BlueCat Linux are LynuxWorks' premium tools. More information is available on the LynuxWorks web site on LynuxWorks family of products and development and programming tools, including SpyKer and VisualLynux.

About LynuxWorks

LynuxWorks is a world leader in the embedded software market, providing operating systems, software development products and consulting services for the world's most successful communications, aerospace/defense, and consumer products companies. Established in 1988, the company is a technology leader in the real-time operating systems (RTOS) industry. LynuxWorks' headquarters are located in San Jose, California.

LynuxWorks is a trademark and LynxOS and BlueCat are registered trademarks of LynuxWorks, Inc. Other brand or product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of the respective holders. Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds.

For more information contact: Kirsten Long LynuxWorks, Inc. 408-979-4404 Email Contact Seema Kalra Weber Shandwick 408-685-0606 Email Contact