TMCnews Featured Article
January 20, 2012
Wind River's Embedded Multi-core Enhances Android Platform
By Susan J. Campbell, TMCnet Contributing Editor
The introduction of new systems platforms opens up a world of opportunities for users throughout the marketplace, as well as for those offering supporting applications. Device delivery issues can arise, however robust the platform, demanding the use of embedded multi-core technologies to ensure manufacturers and operators can focus on revenue generation.
Wind River created such an embedded multi-core for the use of the Android (News - Alert) platform that would address real-world device delivery issues. This platform enables success through the delivery of a validated, multi-BSP, fully Android compliant platform. To drive home performance, it was also augmented with cutting-edge Wind River (News 
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The Android platform from Wind River is positioned as one that enables customers to easily and predictably innovate and differentiate their platforms. The company offers extensive experience with Android enablement engagements, ensuring they add value to a platform that assures market-ready, multi-SKU Android solutions that can be rapidly brought to market.
With the backing of the Wind River certified global customer support, the new platform for Android provides the necessary foundation for the development of customized solutions to fit the specific needs of a particular market. This helps to ensure manufacturers and operators don’t have to reinvest in embedded multi-core platform components to ensure stability.
The entire Android experience is enhanced with this approach to optimization as Wind River encompasses all layers of the software stack and embeds the platform into a comprehensive, automated test framework. The resulting solution ensures predictable device quality and an enhanced experience for the end user.
Through the optimization of the Android Linux kernel, boot process is accelerated and determinism and real-time performance is assured. Wind River enhancements also optimize user space through footprint reductions, script changes and boot sequence adjustments. Plus, the ‘instant on’ capability helps to minimize power consumption during the boot-up process.
Embedded multi-core technology is also used in this integration to enhance USB support. The standard Android device is only able to connect to a computer as a mass storage device, or to debug clients in slave mode with the use of the USB connection. The USB On-the-Go (OTG) capability allows the Android device to act as the host when paired with other USB devices on a the same port.
Finally, Wind River understands that consumers tend to base a device buying decision on the user interface. If a device is purchased and the seemingly easy interface turns out to be non-intuitive or requires multiple steps for basic operation, the device is often returned. Enhancements are included in the Wind River platform to ensure the Android device meets user expectations in terms of the interface and personalization. This helps to optimize manufacturer and operator investment and maintain a happy customer base.
Want to learn more about 4G wireless technologies? Then be sure to attend the 4GWE Conference, collocated with TMC’s ITEXPO East 2012 taking place Jan. 31-Feb. 3 2012, in Miami, FL. Co-sponsored by TMC (News - Alert) Partner Crossfire Media the 4GWE Conference provides unmatched networking opportunities and a robust conference program representing the wireless ecosystem. The conference not only brings together the best and brightest in the wireless industry, it actually spans the communications and technology industry. For more information on registering for the 4GWE Conference clicks here.
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Susan J. Campbell is a contributing editor for TMCnet and has also written for eastbiz.com. To read more of Susan’s articles, please visit her columnist page.
Edited by Stefanie Mosca
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