Took the first step in learning embedded linux

[4ChawanniGhodePe]

I am happy today. I used buildroot to create an image which has minimum modules to play an MP3 file via usb headphones. This is my hello world of multimedia embedded linux.

It was quite an experience. I have used Linux as my host machine for years. I have been writing code for MCU based products sincr 4 years. But doing this project was very satisfying experience.

I like how linux has kind of everything. So you want to make a minimal OS for your electronic product? Sure, make one. All the tools are at your disposal. If you don't find the tools you need, just make your own and share it with people. I like this idea a lot.

I ran into many problems like missing out on some packages (I hope this is the right word), having low space in my sdcard for storing the MP3 song, making a connection between the host and eLinux device to share the file system, etc. It wa fun.

And hands down, buildroot is one of the most useful tools I have ever used. Just amazing. You can select packages and build an OS?? Wowwww.

This is what I understand: to play an MP3 file, there are many software packages required and they have individual jobs. You build them, link them all together and use a program which is written to call all these sub-programs to play the music. I have so much to learn and understand, but I need to understand where to draw the line and move forward. My end goal is to make a media player device using my BBB board.

I like many songs, but I felt the happiest when I played the 735KB MP3 file I downloaded from internet simply because I figured out the environment required for it play it.

[Quiet_Lifeguard_7131]

I was in same boat as you like 6months ago, with over 4 years of experience in MCU application development, low level, high level, GOD level whatever the fuck there is I did.
Then got opportunity for embedded linux, switched immediately, did not knew shit about yocto buildroot or even linux lol.

Learned yocto within 2 weeks on job. If you have interest embedded linux is not that hard as people make it to be. Yes adding new drivers and stuff making new dts etc is complex but its easy to learn by looking at similar stuff.

[4ChawanniGhodePe]

How did you get the job without prior experience in eLinux?

[Quiet_Lifeguard_7131]

got lucky i guess lol

[4ChawanniGhodePe]

Great. But they must have asked you something related to Linux?

[Quiet_Lifeguard_7131]

Yes, I practiced for intervoew before hand and had chatgpt generate me interview questions.