Coffee with ThoughtFix 7 - Embedded Linux vs. Windows

http://tabletblog.com This is where I tackle Linux and Windows in small form factor Internet devices.

Forgive the title. This is actually episode 7

Category:

Entertainment

Tags:

• thoughtfix
• ultramobilegeek
• coffee
• UMPC
• N800
• linux
• windows
• embedded
• MID
• tablet

[thoughtfix]

Whoops ... this is episode 7

[mukatuna]

Embedded Linux is not meant as a desktop OS like Windows.

A lot of embedded Linux applications don't have a GUI at all, such as engine control units.

Often for Mobile Internet Devices, Linux is a better choice because it's far more efficient than Windows Vista or 7.

Some Sony Vaio laptops now come with Linux as well as Windows. Because it offers a quick start environment to run Firefox, Skype and an IM client. Instead of waiting for Windows to boot and run the same applications.

[mukatuna]

The thing with Windows embedded such as Windows CE, being PROPRIETARY closed source. There is only so much they can do to customise it.

Linux on the other hand is FREE open source and can be built in an infinite number of ways, plus they do not have to pay licensing fees to Microsoft. The only obligation with Linux, is that they have to publish the source code of whatever they've done to Linux, under the terms of the General Public License (GPL). So that others may benefit from it.

[mukatuna]

Embedded Linux is just about everywhere now, unlike embedded Windows. Simply because it's open source, it's infinitely customisable. Unlike embedded Windows, which is proprietary.

For example Sony is using embedded Linux in just about everything now. Walkmans, cameras, camcorders, digital TVs, Blu-ray disc players, sat-navs, e-book readers, set top boxes. Same goes for lot of other manufacturers.

[rbscholtus]

Does this consider Windows Embedded which is only 40MB for a functional system.

I also have doubts about Windows having too many layers. The kernel-only version of Windows Embedded is only 5MB I don't think "the layers" made it all that big.

[scratchyrice]

What are you on about. I said i like linux, Not windows. I also did not say that Linux was windows, When its not.

[etrnldrk]

Woa.... Linux a version of Windows..... Completely different mate.

[psychodraculo]

Nice talking! But you should change camera angles or something else to make it even better! Try to make it look like a presentation.

[mastros88]

guys linux is good but is too dificult windows you know that every where you go you can find it so i prefer windows vista or 7 that you can touch on your screen and play like a babe...!!!

[scratchyrice]

So basicly, Linux is a more complex, but much more efficient and secure version of windows... Which i prefer alot.

[theshortwavelistener]

Great talk and very informative. 5*