Porting question...
 

Hi all, I am not new to linux, but I am new to porting and programming with linux. I guess this is more of a kernel question since I am interested in porting linux to Paralax's Propeller microcontroller.

The Propeller is an 8 core RISC based mcu that does not support interupts. more info about the mcu at http://www.parallax.com/ProductInfo/...2/Default.aspx

I know I have to tell gcc or gas about the opcodes, then I have to make or obtain src for a micro kernel and successfully. I will basicaly have to create my own BIOS too.

I think my first starting point should be to create a linux standard for the Propeller so the kernel can find devices like keyboard/mouse/video/SD-Card on specific pins of the mcu.

I have never written a kernel, only compiled/configured them for my various systems. I started delving into the kernel source and it is overwhelming. Where do I start?? Do I have to start coding from scratch?? How do I add/create files to tell gcc/gas about the supported opcodes and what they do?? Am i on the right path??

One last question, is anyone with core knowledge of linux willing to help with samples or templates to get me started, or is this already a work in progress??

This is pretty serious project by itself. Especially taking into account the issue of optimization to be performed by 'gcc'.

If there is a good compiler for the controller, you better consider converting produced by it object files into the form acceptable by gcc/ld.

I know this is a big project that will not only require support from linux enthusiasts but from the propeller enthusiests as well, I have posted a thread on the forums at parallax and I am hoping to get alot of support there, which will be required. There on the propeller forum, most users will, I hope, support it and will have fun with it. There are one or two users there who are activly trying to create an OS but they are doing it alone for the most part. here is a link for cross referance to the thread I just posted http://forums.parallax.com/forums/de...?f=25&m=467521 over the next few days support there should grow and I know a project this size will not get support here unless it is supported there first.

Lets hope for the best....