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Embedded Linux with Yocto & BeagleBone Black

Hands-on Training for Embedded Systems Development

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Embedded Linux

Learning Objectives

  • Understand Embedded Linux ecosystem and applications
  • Compare RTOS vs Embedded Linux vs General Linux
  • Explore ARM Cortex-A architecture
  • Get familiar with BeagleBone Black hardware

Topics Covered

  • What is Embedded Linux? Real-world applications and use cases
  • System Comparisons: RTOS vs Embedded Linux vs General Linux
  • ARM Architecture: Cortex-A vs Cortex-M, pipelines, memory models
  • BeagleBone Black: Hardware overview and capabilities

Hands-on Lab

  • Setup Linux host PC for cross-development
  • Install essential development tools and packages
  • Configure development environment

Module 2: Mastering C Programming & Data Structures

Learning Objectives

  • Write efficient C code for embedded systems
  • Master data structures for resource-constrained environments
  • Understand memory management and debugging

Topics Covered

  • C Language Refresher: Pointers, memory, storage classes
  • Data Structures: Arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, hash maps, trees
  • Memory Management: Dynamic allocation & embedded system pitfalls
  • Low-level Programming: Bitwise operations, register-level programming
  • Code Quality: Writing modular, portable C code

Hands-on Lab

  • Implement data structures in C
  • Memory debugging with valgrind
  • Mini projects and coding exercises

Module 3: Linux Kernel & Device Drivers Basics

Learning Objectives

  • Understand Linux boot process and kernel architecture
  • Learn cross-compilation techniques
  • Get introduced to kernel modules and drivers

Topics Covered

  • Linux Boot Process: Bootloader → Kernel → Rootfs
  • System Architecture: Kernel space vs User space
  • Driver Development: Modules and device drivers overview
  • Cross-compilation: GCC toolchains for ARM

Hands-on Lab

  • Build and load a simple kernel module
  • Cross-compile "Hello World" for ARM
  • Basic driver compilation and testing

Module 4: Yocto Project – Building Custom Embedded Linux

Learning Objectives

  • Master Yocto Project build system
  • Create custom Linux distributions
  • Debug and customize embedded images

Topics Covered

  • Yocto Fundamentals: Poky, Bitbake, Layers, Recipes
  • Build System: Metadata and configuration management
  • Image Customization: Creating minimal images for BeagleBone Black
  • Package Management: Adding packages, applications, and services
  • Recipe Development: Writing custom Bitbake recipes
  • Debugging: Build issues and layer management

Hands-on Lab

  • Create custom Linux distribution with Yocto
  • Build and deploy images to BeagleBone Black
  • Debug build failures and optimize images

Module 5: Board Bring-up on BeagleBone Black

Learning Objectives

  • Master board bring-up process
  • Configure bootloader and device tree
  • Set up networking and remote debugging

Topics Covered

  • Bootloader: U-Boot configuration & customization
  • Device Tree: Concepts and customization for hardware
  • Root Filesystem: BusyBox, systemd initialization
  • Deployment: Cross-compiling and application deployment
  • Networking: Setup and remote debugging techniques

Hands-on Lab

  • Boot customized image on BeagleBone Black
  • Debug boot failures and hardware issues
  • Configure networking and remote access

Module 6: Capstone Project

Project Overview

End-to-end embedded Linux project integrating all learned concepts

Project Components

  • Custom Yocto Image: Build customized Linux distribution
  • Board Bring-up: Configure BeagleBone Black with peripherals (UART, I2C, GPIO, Ethernet)
  • Application Development: Deploy C application using data structures
  • Hardware Integration: Interact with physical hardware components

Example Projects

  • Temperature Sensor + Data Logger: Environmental monitoring system
  • GPIO-controlled Automation: Home/industrial automation controller
  • Network-enabled Application: Web-controlled embedded system

Course Details & Outcomes

Target Audience & Prerequisites

Ideal Participants

Engineering Students
  • ECE, CSE, EE students
  • Embedded systems enthusiasts
Professionals
  • Moving into embedded/Linux development
  • Career transition seekers
Hobbyists
  • ARM-based boards interest
  • Linux internals exploration

Prerequisites

  • Basic Programming: Knowledge in any language
  • Linux Familiarity: Basic shell commands
  • Optional: Prior microcontroller exposure

Deliverables & Outcomes

What You Will Achieve

Strong C Programming
  • Embedded-focused C skills
  • Memory management expertise
Yocto Mastery
  • Linux image customization
  • Build system proficiency
Board Bring-up
  • ARM boards from scratch
  • Hardware debugging skills
Hardware Integration
  • Peripheral interfacing
  • Real-world applications

Career Benefits

  • Complete Project Portfolio: Showcaseable to employers
  • Industry-relevant Skills: Directly applicable in embedded roles
  • Hands-on Experience: Practical knowledge with real hardware

Course Duration & Schedule

Timeline Options

Full-time
  • 8-10 weeks duration
  • Intensive learning pace
Part-time
  • 12-14 weeks duration
  • Flexible schedule

Total Commitment

  • 120-150 hours total (theory + labs)
  • Balanced approach: 30% theory, 50% hands-on labs
  • Weekly assignments and progressive projects