CHAPTER 5 Practical BeagleBone Programming
This chapter describes several different programming options for the BeagleBone, including scripted and compiled languages. An LED flashing example is provided in all of the languages so that you can investigate each language’s structure and syntax. The advantages and disadvantages of each language are discussed along with example uses. The chapter then focuses on the C/C++ programming languages, describing the principles of these languages, and why object‐oriented programming (OOP) is appropriate and necessary for the development of scalable embedded systems applications. Finally, the chapter details how you can interface directly to the Linux kernel using the GNU C Library. A single chapter can only touch the surface of programming languages, but this one is focused on programming the BeagleBone. I have made my module notes about OOP available at ee402.eeng.dcu.ie to support this chapter.
Equipment Required for This Chapter:
- BeagleBone Black with console connection (see Chapter 2)
- Desktop Linux Installation (e.g., Debian in a VM—see Chapter 3)
Introduction
As discussed in Chapter 3, embedded Linux is essentially “Linux on an embedded system.” If your favorite programming language is available under Linux, then it is also likely to be available for the BBB. So, is your favorite language suitable for programming the BBB? That depends on what you intend to do with the board. Are you interfacing to electronics devices/modules? Do ...
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