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Linux System Programming and Introduction to Buildroot

Daniel Walkes

This course provides an overview of System Programming for the Linux operating system, or software which is interfacing directly with the Linux Kernel and C library. The basic components of a Linux Embedded System, including kernel and root filesystem details are discussed. The Buildroot build system is introduced, which students use to build their own custom Embedded Linux system through programming assignments.

Linux System Programming and Introduction to Buildroot can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5305, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Intro to Linux System Programming and Toolchains
In this module, you will learn about Linux shell scripting and System Programming concepts. You will also understand the basics of an Embedded Linux toolchain and setup a cross-compiler.
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File IO, Process Management, Basics of Embeddd Linux
In this module, you will learn the basics of File IO for Linux. You will understand the basics of Process Management, process forking, and Linux daemons. You will build your own Linux kernel and root filesystem, boot and run on QEMU.
Threads and Multithreading, Introduction to Buildroot
In this module, you will learn the basics of Threading and Multi Thread Synchronization in Linux system programming using POSIX. You will also learn about the Buildroot build system and build a QEMU Image using Buildroot.
Time and Sockets
In this module, you will learn the fundamentals of signal handling and time management in Linux System Programming. You will learn the basic components of Embedded Linux debugging. You will implement a socket server application and deploy on a QEMU based Embedded System using Buildroot.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores System Programming, which is fundamental in Linux operating systems and their C libraries
Delves into Linux Embedded System components, encompassing kernel and root filesystem intricacies
Provides practical experience through the Buildroot build system, empowering students to build custom Embedded Linux systems
Covers fundamental Linux System Programming concepts, including shell scripting, file IO, and process management
Examines threading, multithreading, time management, and signal handling in Linux System Programming, offering a comprehensive treatment
Embraces a cross-disciplinary approach, blending System Programming with Buildroot, to foster a holistic understanding

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Linux System Programming and Introduction to Buildroot with these activities:
Review basic C programming concepts
Ensure a solid foundation in C programming, which is essential for understanding the concepts and techniques covered in the course.
Browse courses on C Programming
Show steps
  • Review your notes or a C programming tutorial.
  • Practice writing simple C programs to refresh your memory.
Join a study group or participate in online forums
Engage with fellow students to discuss course concepts, ask questions, and share insights, deepening your understanding through collaborative learning.
Browse courses on System Programming
Show steps
  • Identify a study group or online forum related to the course material.
  • Participate in discussions and ask questions to clarify your understanding.
  • Share your knowledge and insights with other students.
Follow tutorials on system programming with Linux
Enhance your understanding of Linux system programming by following tutorials that demonstrate practical examples and applications.
Browse courses on System Programming
Show steps
  • Find reputable tutorials on system programming with Linux.
  • Step through the tutorials, experimenting with the code examples.
  • Take notes on the key concepts and techniques you learn.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Review "The Linux Programming Interface"
Familiarize yourself with the Linux system programming concepts by reviewing this book, solidifying your understanding of the course material.
View The Linux Programming Interface on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the first few chapters of the book.
  • Write a summary of the key concepts you have learned.
  • Discuss the book with your classmates or a study group.
Practice File IO and Process Management
Reinforce your understanding of File IO and Process Management by completing repetitive coding exercises and drills.
Browse courses on File IO
Show steps
  • Set up a coding environment and write a program to perform file input and output operations.
  • Write a program to demonstrate process creation and management.
  • Test and debug your programs to ensure they function correctly.
Attend a workshop on Embedded Linux development
Enhance your knowledge and practical skills by attending a workshop led by experts in Embedded Linux development, providing you with valuable insights and hands-on experience.
Browse courses on Embedded Linux
Show steps
  • Research and identify a workshop that aligns with your learning goals.
  • Register and attend the workshop.
  • Actively participate in the workshop activities and discussions.
Create a simple Linux daemon
Demonstrate your understanding of Linux system programming by creating a simple Linux daemon that performs a specific task.
Browse courses on System Programming
Show steps
  • Design the functionality of your daemon.
  • Write the code for your daemon in C.
  • Test and debug your daemon to ensure it runs reliably.
  • Deploy your daemon on a Linux system.
Build a custom Embedded Linux system using Buildroot
Gain hands-on experience by building a custom Embedded Linux system from scratch, applying the concepts learned in the course.
Browse courses on Buildroot
Show steps
  • Set up a development environment for Buildroot.
  • Configure and customize a Buildroot configuration.
  • Build the Embedded Linux system image.
  • Deploy the image to a target device (e.g., Raspberry Pi).
  • Configure and test the system.

Career center

Learners who complete Linux System Programming and Introduction to Buildroot will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Embedded Linux Engineer
Embedded Linux Engineers are responsible for developing and maintaining embedded systems that run the Linux operating system. They work on a variety of projects, from small, single-board computers to large, complex systems used in everything from cars to medical devices. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in the specialized knowledge needed to be successful in this field. For example, the course discusses the Buildroot build system which candidates will use to build their own custom Embedded Linux system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Linux Engineer
Embedded System Engineer
Embedded System Engineers design, develop, and test embedded systems. They work on a variety of projects, from small, single-board computers to large, complex systems used in everything from cars to medical devices. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field work at the intersection of hardware and software. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in the specialized knowledge needed to be successful in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded System Engineer
DevOps Engineer
DevOps Engineers are responsible for bridging the gap between development and operations teams. They work to automate and streamline the software development process, and to ensure that software is deployed and maintained reliably and efficiently. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field work at the intersection of hardware and software. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in the specialized knowledge needed to be successful in this field. For example, the course discusses the basics of Buildroot, which DevOps Engineers will find useful in their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for DevOps Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and test software applications. They work on a variety of projects, from small, single-purpose applications to large, complex systems used by millions of people. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field work at the intersection of hardware and software. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in the specialized knowledge needed to be successful in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists design, develop, and test computer software and hardware. They work on a variety of projects, from small, single-purpose applications to large, complex systems used by millions of people. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field work at the intersection of hardware and software. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in the specialized knowledge needed to be successful in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining complex systems. They work on a variety of projects, from small, single-purpose systems to large, complex systems used by millions of people. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field work at the intersection of hardware and software. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in the specialized knowledge needed to be successful in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer
Hardware Engineer
Hardware Engineers design, develop, and test hardware components. They work on a variety of projects, from small, single-purpose devices to large, complex systems used in everything from cars to medical devices. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field work at the intersection of hardware and software. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in the specialized knowledge needed to be successful in this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Hardware Engineer
Cloud Engineer
Cloud Engineers design, build, and maintain cloud computing systems. They work with users, vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure that cloud systems are reliable, scalable, and secure. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field are familiar with the specialized knowledge needed by Embedded Linux Engineers. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in this specialized knowledge which may assist them in their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Engineer
IT Manager
IT Managers are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing IT systems. They work with users, vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure that IT systems are aligned with business needs. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field are familiar with the specialized knowledge needed by Embedded Linux Engineers. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in this specialized knowledge which may assist them in their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and maintain documentation for software and hardware products. They work with engineers and other technical staff to gather information and write clear, concise, and accurate documentation. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field are familiar with the specialized knowledge needed by Embedded Linux Engineers. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in this specialized knowledge which may assist them in their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Network Administrator
Network Administrators are responsible for the management and maintenance of computer networks. They work with users, vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure that networks are reliable, secure, and efficient. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field are familiar with the specialized knowledge needed by Embedded Linux Engineers. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in this specialized knowledge which may assist them in their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator
Database Administrator
Database Administrators are responsible for the management and maintenance of databases. They work with users, developers, and other stakeholders to ensure that databases are efficient, reliable, and secure. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field are familiar with the specialized knowledge needed by Embedded Linux Engineers. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in this specialized knowledge which may assist them in their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. They work with engineers, marketers, and other stakeholders to define the product vision, set priorities, and track progress. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field are familiar with the specialized knowledge needed by Embedded Linux Engineers. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in this specialized knowledge which may assist them in their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Quality Assurance Tester
Quality Assurance Testers test software and hardware products to ensure that they meet quality standards. They work with engineers and other technical staff to identify and fix defects. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field are familiar with the specialized knowledge needed by Embedded Linux Engineers. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in this specialized knowledge which may assist them in their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Tester
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. Those that work in the Embedded Linux field are familiar with the specialized knowledge needed by Embedded Linux Engineers. This course, with its focus on Linux System Programming and Buildroot, can help learners build a foundation in this specialized knowledge which may assist them in their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Linux System Programming and Introduction to Buildroot.
Cover image
Linux Device Drivers
Save
Comprehensive guide to writing Linux device drivers. It covers all aspects of the process, from understanding the kernel's device model to writing and testing drivers. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Linux device drivers.
Linux Device Drivers
Paperback
Check
Linux Device Drivers
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Linux System Programming
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Linux system programming, covering topics such as process management, file I/O, and network programming. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the internals of the Linux operating system.
Linux System Programming
Paperback
Check
Linux System Programming
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Linux Programming Interface
Save
More advanced treatment of Linux system programming, covering topics such as kernel internals, device drivers, and security. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the inner workings of the Linux operating system.
The Linux Programming Interface: A Linux and UNIX...
Hardcover
$$$
The Linux Programming Interface: A Linux and UNIX...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Linux Kernel Development
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Linux kernel development, covering topics such as kernel architecture, kernel internals, and kernel debugging. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Linux kernel development.
Linux Kernel Development
Paperback
$$
Linux Kernel Development
Paperback
$$
Linux Kernel Development
Paperback
$$
Linux Kernel Development (Novell Press) by Robert...
Paperback
$$$
Linux Kernel Development (Developer's Library)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Embedded Linux Primer
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of embedded Linux, covering topics such as the basics of embedded systems, the Linux kernel, and embedded Linux development tools. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about embedded Linux.
Embedded Linux Primer: A Practical, Real-World...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Programming Embedded Systems
Save
Provides a practical introduction to embedded systems, covering topics such as hardware selection, operating system selection, and application development. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about embedded systems.
Programming Embedded Systems
Paperback
Check
Programming Embedded Systems
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Mastering Embedded Linux Programming
Save
Could be used as a primary reference for the course, covering topics such as the basics of embedded Linux, including toolchains, kernel configuration, and root filesystems. It also includes information on building and deploying images using the Yocto Project, which popular build system for embedded Linux.
Mastering Embedded Linux Programming - Third...
Paperback
$$
Mastering Embedded Linux Programming: Create fast...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Effort
4 weeks of study, 10-15 hours per week
Level
Advanced
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Daniel Walkes
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша
This course belongs to a collection called Advanced Embedded Linux Development. It's comprised of three courses:
  1. Linux System Programming and Introduction to Buildroot (viewing)
  2. Linux Embedded System Topics and Projects
  3. Linux Kernel Programming and Introduction to Yocto Project
Good to know
Explores System Programming, which is fundamental in Linux operating systems and their C libraries
Delves into Linux Embedded System components, encompassing kernel and root filesystem intricacies
Provides practical experience through the Buildroot build system, empowering students to build custom Embedded Linux systems
Covers fundamental Linux System Programming concepts, including shell scripting, file IO, and process management
Examines threading, multithreading, time management, and signal handling in Linux System Programming, offering a comprehensive treatment
Embraces a cross-disciplinary approach, blending System Programming with Buildroot, to foster a holistic understanding
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