Learn to develop Linux drivers using DMA, interrupts, kernel threads, and synchronization.
Advanced knowledge of Linux kernel data structure and the ability to use its framework for writing device drivers is critical for Linux programmers.
In this course, students learn to differentiate between the kernel development environment and writing user space programs. They study Linux kernel subsystems, such as Linux scheduler, memory management, networking stack, and Linux block layer, all of which helps them build high-performing kernel drivers.
We will develop kernel modules that use kernel facilities and services to perform actions, such as interrupt handling, direct memory access (DMA), bus-independent device access, invoking kernel threads, and mapping device memory into the user space.
By introducing students to the proper use of available Linux synchronization primitives such as mutex, rwlock, semaphores, and read copy-update (RCU), students will learn to handle concurrency issues in the driver code.
This class meets simultaneously in a classroom and remotely via Zoom. Students are expected to attend and participate in the course, either in-person or remotely, during the days and times that are specified on the course schedule. Students attending remotely are also strongly encouraged to have their cameras on to get the most out of the remote learning experience. Students attending the class in-person are expected to bring a laptop to each class meeting.
To see all meeting dates, click "Full Schedule" below.
You will be granted access in Canvas to your course site and course materials approximately 24 hours prior to the published start date of the course.
Recommended Texts:
Linux Device Drivers, 3rd Edition, Jonathan Corbet, et al., O'Reilly Media, 2005, ISBN-10: 0596005903, ISBN-13: 978-0596005900. Available Online: http://lwn.net/Kernel/LDD3/
Writing Linux Device Drivers: A Guide with Exercises, Jerry Cooperstein, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2009, ISBN-10: 1448672384, ISBN-13: 978-1448672387.
Essential Linux Device Drivers, Sreekrishnan Venkateswaran, Prentice Hall, 2008, ISBN-10: 0132396556, ISBN-13: 978-0132396554.
