Performance is the main driver for multi-core architectures in embedded devices. But multi-cores rise the question about how to assign time and resources to different tasks and applications in an adequate way. And they require a concept to assure the safety and security of the overall system. PikeOS v3.1 provides multi-core support in a proven safe and secure environment, a certified system with a generic core for all appliances.

PikeOS v3.1 supports multi-core architectures with Asymmetric Multi Processing (AMP) and Symmetric Multi Processing ( SMP). The new release is the first implementation of an even more interesting feature that will be fully developed in the upcoming 4.0 version, scheduled for Q4 2010: multi-core support through a flexible approach made available to the user who can select an execution model ranging from a pure AMP to full SMP. The Safe & Secure Virtualization (SSV) design developed by SYSGO made PikeOS particularly suitable for multi-core architectures. The resource and time partitioning model simplifies the development of concurrent applications on multi-core platforms: only core assignment needs new action from the user, the rest of the partitioning remains the same as before. Combined with the fact that the multi-core related code is integrated within the certified code basis, this user-friendly and powerful extended SMP implementation makes PikeOS v3.1 the first solution of its kind on the market. Moreover, this flexible multi-core support model is hardware agnostic, in line with the original PikeOS principle.

The very first illustration of the PikeOS product philosophy is the DO-178B certified 3.1 version: exactly the same certified core components are available to all customers, whether they have a certification requirement or not. This extra level of safety and security is a great advantage for all appliances whether in Aerospace & Defense, Automotive & Transportation, Industrial Automation & Medical, Network Infrastructure or Consumer Electronics. 

The new 3.1 release maintains one of the main benefits of PikeOS technology: the same core components are used whatever market segment is targeted. Contrary to others, market and application specific components are isolated within “Personalities”, a SYSGO concept that allows all PikeOS customers to benefit from the same software layers underneath, PikeOS System Software and PikeOS micro-kernel.

Read more: PikeOS Data Sheet