Real-Time Linux as an RTOS: the preempt_rt patch

Discover how to patch, configure and program rt Linux using preempt_rt rt threads and tools like perf

Build Real-Time Systems with Linux — from Kernel Fundamentals to Deterministic Applications.

This course takes you on a practical journey through Real-Time Linux using the PREEMPT_RT patch, giving you the knowledge and tools to transform a standard Linux kernel into a low-latency, predictable, real-time platform.

Whether you’re developing for industrial automation, robotics, aerospace, or embedded systems, this course will help you understand how Linux achieves determinism — and how to design applications that meet strict timing constraints.

What You’ll Learn

• The core concepts of real-time computing and determinism

• How PREEMPT_RT transforms the Linux kernel for real-time performance

• Building and configuring a real-time kernel (e.g., Linux 6.1)

• Measuring and tuning system latency using tools like cyclictest

• Writing real-time C/C++ applications with pthread, priorities, and CPU affinity

• Understanding priority inheritance and scheduling policies (SCHED_FIFO, SCHED_RR, SCHED_DEADLINE)

• Isolating CPUs and optimizing for predictability

Hands-On Experience

This course emphasizes practical implementation:

• Build a real-time kernel from source and apply the PREEMPT_RT patch

• Configure boot parameters and CPU isolation

• Implement real-time applications using POSIX threads

Who This Course Is For

• Embedded systems engineers and developers

• Linux system programmers

• Robotics and automation developers

• Anyone interested in low-latency and deterministic systems

Requirements

• Basic knowledge of Linux commands and shell scripting

• Some C or C++ programming experience

• A Linux development environment (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian, or similar)

Why Take This Course

Linux is everywhere, but standard Linux is not deterministic.
By understanding how to configure and program a real-time Linux system, you’ll unlock the ability to build responsive, reliable, and time-critical software for any industry.