Efficient Access of Remote Resources in Embedded Networked Computer Systems

Fixed networks of limited resource heterogeneous computers need to allow applications to access remote devices in order to overcome any local resource deficiencies. Current operating systems would use a file system, network stack and middleware to implement such access but the volume of functionality involved can be a barrier to performance. This paper examines the 2.4 series Linux kernel to show that networked operating systems lack flexibility and performance in this environment. It also presents a low level approach that can reduce the overheads incurred and improve performance when remote devices are accessed.