Introduction to VxWorks Real-Time Operating System

Why VxWorks?

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Real-time embedded systems require a reliable, high-performance real-time operating system (RTOS) that fully leverages modern processor and hardware capabilities.

VxWorks is a proven, industry-leading RTOS trusted for over 35 years. It powers billions of intelligent devices and systems, from safety-critical aerospace equipment to consumer electronics. VxWorks delivers advanced functionality to help developers innovate faster while lowering costs and shortening development cycles.

Why Choose VxWorks for Your Project?

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Key Characteristics

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• Proven: Powers over 1 billion real-time systems globally, from small devices to commercial airliners. Trusted for mission-critical applications where failure is costly or life-threatening.
• Optimized: Performance, determinism, and code footprint are tuned for every processor platform. Supports specialized hardware acceleration for graphics and networking.
• Innovative: First RTOS with 32-bit/64-bit support, multi-core/multi-OS capabilities, and diverse connectivity options. Keeps your system competitive with cutting-edge features.

Unparalleled Innovation

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VxWorks addresses critical embedded system requirements, including memory constraints, performance, and power consumption, while meeting growing safety, security, and connectivity needs:

• Multi-core/Multi-OS: Supports SMP and AMP configurations or as a guest RTOS on Wind River Hypervisor.
• Scalability: Runs efficiently on memory- and CPU-constrained devices up to full 64-bit multi-core systems. Ideal for unified software platforms across a product line.
• Security and Safety: Certifiable RTOS for FAA DO-178B, IEC 61508, ARINC 653, and multilevel secure systems. Supports industrial cyber-security standards like Wurldtech Achilles.
• Connectivity: Advanced networking for device-to-device and multi-core AMP communication.
• Graphics: Robust platform with Wind River Media Library and Tilcon Graphics Suite for GUI development.

Significant Strengths

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• Footprint: Fully configurable for small memory systems.
• Real-time Performance: Deterministic and responsive for strict time constraints.
• Reliability: High-reliability RTOS with certification-ready features.
• Scalability: Suitable for devices ranging from small embedded systems to complex networking solutions.

Industry and Technology Profiles

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• Industry Profiles: Prebuilt configurations and add-ons for specific IoT and industry requirements.
• Technology Profiles: Rapidly develop specialized features for unique application needs.
• Certified Platforms:
  • VxWorks 653 Platform – ARINC 653 compliance, DO-297/ED-124 support.
  • VxWorks Cert Platform – DO-178B and IEC 61508 safety-critical software.
  • VxWorks MILS Platform – EAL6+ multilevel secure aerospace/defense systems.

Architecture and Processor Family Support

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Key Features of VxWorks

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• Multi-core & Multiprocessing: Supports AMP, SMP, and CPU-affinity for bound multiprocessing (BMP).
• OCI Containers: Deploy applications using standard container registries and Kubernetes orchestration.
• Security: Continuous, adaptable security from boot to shutdown aligned with the CIA triad.
• Certifiable: Supports DO-178C, IEC 61508, IEC 62304, ISO 26262, and FACE™ standards.
• Connectivity: IPv4/IPv6, TSN, OPC UA, SocketCAN, USB host/target/OTG.
• Board Support: Optimized BSPs for latest processors and SOCs.
• Customization: Full source access and configurable components.
• Virtualization: Compatible with Helix™ Virtualization Platform, QEMU, VMware, and KVM.
• Fault-Tolerant File System: Integrated and certifiable.
• Multimedia: Supports OpenGL, OpenGL ES, OpenCV, Vulkan, JPEG, PNG.
• AI/ML: Integration with pandas, TensorFlow Lite, and other ML frameworks.
• Python Support: Fully enabled for rapid prototyping and testing.
• Feedback Loop: Device-to-cloud communication for analytics and digital transformation.

Meet the VxWorks RTOS

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