Performance-aware Embedded Linux Kernel Analysis Tool

As the use of embedded Linux kernel increases in a variety of consumer electronics such as Smart phone and Internet TV, the significance of effective kernel profiling and debugging tools also increases. In this paper, we propose a novel integrated kernel analysis tool, called as RTRP(Right Time Right Place) tool. It supports two features, right time and right place feature. The right time feature is supported by monitoring system performance on-line and by issuing an analysis trigger at the time when the target system shows performance anomalies or misbehavior. In addition, the tool supports the right place feature by providing proper system information including the stack frame that causes the problems, allowing developers to focus on solving the problems without being deviated by irrelevant information. Experimental results, conducted on a real embedded system equipped with a live image compression facility, have shown that the tool can notify appropriate information to identify the location of a device driver that causes overrun problems.