Re: Recommendations for Linux-based SBC

dimadiall_at_gmail.com
Date: 10/25/05 

Date: 25 Oct 2005 05:49:11 -0700

Hi there Captain Dondo!

Captain Dondo wrote:
[...]
> I can pretty much recomment the systems from embeddedarm.com - the TS-7xx0
> (arm based boaards) meet your requirements nicely, except perhaps the
> horsepower. And the price can't be beat - even with the 8 channel ADC
> you're still below $200 in single unit quantities....

I checked their stuff and liked it a lot! Even the x86 boards (which I
am more familiar iwith) seem OK for my requirements as there is an
optional ADC unit.

> > 2) Get current position via GPS (this can be an integrated board, or
> > one attached by serial port or Bluetooth).
>
> If you figure this please let me know. I am looking for an affordable GPS
> unit... Ideally a serial (RS485) capable, one that can be queried.

I know little (yet) about RS-485, but stuff from sparkfun.com I was
looking at seems affordable to me and probably there is a way to hook
it up for your application. Check their GPS units here:
http://www.sparkfun.com/shop/index.php?shop=1&cat=63&

> > 3) Wirelessly relay data to collection stations using TCP/IP,
> > preferably with Wi-Fi 802.11, but a GPRS interface would be an option
> > too.
>
> Ditto for the GPRS; I would like to find an affordable board for this as
> well.

Same place, but a bit more expensive:
http://www.sparkfun.com/shop/index.php?shop=1&cat=75&

> > 5) All these components should be supported under GNU/Linux -- which
> > embedded distribution and development environment would you recommend?
>
> Standard Debian works well for me....

How small is your base OS (or how big is your CompactFlash)? Did you
ever try with other embedded distros (e.g. EmDebian)?

Do you have any experience with their own distro (TS-Linux)? Does it
support all included components out-of-the-box?

TIA!
/dima