Embedded Linux Options for Toradex SoMs
Introduction
This article provides information on the different Embedded Linux Options for Toradex SoMs.
Embedded Linux Options
Toradex provides two options for embedded Linux development.
Torizon OS and the Reference Images are built on top of the BSP layers.
Compare their features in our Embedded Linux page on the main Toradex website.
Torizon OS
Torizon OS Ready-to-use Distribution
Torizon OS is a ready-to-use binary distribution that provides rich tooling for customization and application development, meant to be used in production environments. It includes out-of-the-box integration to Torizon Cloud and is fully maintained by Toradex. Torizon OS is built using Yocto and is based on Toradex BSP Layers.
Since it provides fast application development and deployment with containers, Torizon OS is also a great choice for quick evaluation and proofs-of-concept, regardless of the Linux option you decide to use in production.
Torizon OS Reference Images - Yocto Layers
If you bump into any limitation of the available customization tools and features, you can do a custom Yocto Project build of Torizon OS, as Toradex provides Yocto Layers for it.
Note that, in this case, Toradex maintenance is extended to the BSP and the Torizon OS Layers. When building your distro based on Torizon OS, you will be in charge of its maintenance.
Torizon OS Reference Minimal Image - Yocto Layers
Toradex provides a Reference Image of Torizon OS without container support, which you can use as a base for your Yocto Project build if you prefer not to use containers. If you want more information on this topic, refer to Torizon OS Reference Minimal Image Technical Overview
Toradex BSP Layers for Yocto Project
Toradex BSP Layers - Custom Embedded Linux
The Toradex BSP Layers and Reference Images for Yocto Project are production-grade quality. You should use them to build your custom Embedded Linux Distribution. It is not a production-complete product, it is expected that you do take appropriate measures to maintain your custom components, harden and secure your distribution.
Toradex Reference Images for Evaluation
To help you during evaluation, we provide pre-built Reference Images, ready to be installed using Toradex Easy Installer.
For Toradex BSP Layers and Reference Images for Yocto Project, only the BSP Yocto Layers and the Reference Image Recipes are release products (production-grade). The binary images are meant for evaluation only.