Computer Science Seminar Series
The Embedded XINU Laboratory at the University of Mississippi : A Hands-On Tool For Developing Projects in System Courses
3:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Weir Hall, Room 235
Patrick Hoover
Graduate Student of Computer and Information Science
University of Mississippi
Abstract:
The study of computer systems continues to be one of the core elements of mainstream Computer Science curricula. The
opportunity to complete hand-on systems and networking projects often provides the .cool. factor that engages students and
motivates them to achieve a deeper level of understanding. Toward the introduction of hands-on projects in many systems
courses, an Embedded Xinu Systems Laboratory was created in the University of Mississippi.s Department of Computer and
Information Science. The Xinu laboratory provides students with a platform on which to design and implement a simplified
version of the Xinu operating system and deploy it on real hardware (Linksys WRT54GL router). The platform includes
automated mechanisms managing many students who all need access to a limited number of routers.
This talk presents the knowledge gained through the experience of building the Embedded Xinu System Laboratory. The talk
covers motivation behind the laboratory.s creation, the design of the hardware and software composing the laboratory, and a
tour of its functionality.