How to compile and install a Linux kernel into an ARM kit

Question

I have an ARM kit beside me and a Linux kernel source code patched with Xenomai on my machine. I understand I can send data to the kit through an USB cable and a (windows-based, of course) software, but I'm stumped as to exactly what I should be sending that would make the kit run Linux.

(clarifications from comments: It is an Atmel AT91SAM9260-EK kit. It uses SAM-BA and SAM-PROG for the loading and unloading of data through either a serial or USB cable.)

Answer 1

I'd start with the ATM91SAM9 Linux software package from Atmel and follow the instructions.

Linky:

http://www.atmel.com/dyn/products/tools_card.asp?tool_id=4335

Otherwise, you need to get GCC setup with an ARM back end on a Linux box, build a Linux binary and then figure out how to load it on the devt board.

Answer 2

You might want to check out some cross compiler like OpenEmbedded which will help you compile the kernel for the ARM architecture.

Answer 3

i would suggest jtag and openOCD, then you just use the JTAG to place your filesystem and kernal image in the flash memory, in a place wear our bootloader can find it. you might have to change your bootloader. another option is you might start up your micro, then insert a bootloading program into the RAM of the program then change the program counter to point at it. that bootloading program can init the UART/USB then you have a host side program that transers the files. this method is very complicated and generally only good if you don't want to spend 100$ on a jtag (hint, buy a jtag they are useful)