The standard linux kernel has steadily incorporated real-time features over the last few years. At the recent Kernel Summit, it was reported that the kernel is now capable of sustaining a 20 micro second response time under heavy load. On the other hand, micro-kernel based systems are also becoming popular, for example, the Minix3 system. The goal of this project is to evaluate the real-time performance of Linux and Minix3 and make recommendations about the possibility of using these systems in real-time embedded systems.

The project will lead to a better understanding of the suitability of current open source operating systems such as Linux and Minix3 for use in Robotics projects. The student will learn about operating systems in-depth and will emerge with a good understanding of modern operating systems. The student will also go through the complete lifecycle of a typical project involving design, implementation, testing and evaluation.

This project encompasses a wide range of skills including:

• Operating systems

• Real-time systems

• teamwork (dealing with the lab's technicians and programmers)