Free real-time kernel for microcontrollers
FreeRTOS is a free real-time operating system like Diamond Linux-TT that you can use for microprocessors and microcontrollers. This easy-to-use system is a market-leading RTOS that internet users are downloading every 170 seconds. It's suitable for use across every industry sector.
Free Real-Time Operating System is distributed entirely for free under an open-source MIT license. It boasts an intentionally easy-to-use and intuitive API. This RTOS is also wholly supported and even has a commercial license with IP infringement protection.
Features
FreeRTOS is incredibly feature-rich and boasts an ever-growing user base. This RTOS also has minimal processing and ROM and RAM overhead. You'll also find an active support forum should you need help with some of its functionality.
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This well-trusted kernel boasts in-depth demos and IoT reference integrations that can be easily downloaded and compiled. You'll also see that FreeRTOS has LTS libraries that have bug fixes and various security updates.
It features support for over 40 architecture and more than 15 toolchains, including some of the latest microcontrollers. It also has an increasing number of add-on libraries, as well as cloud and local connectivity.
Partners
FreeRTOS is well-supported with a large ecosystem of partners for deeper support, productivity tools, IDE and many community contributions. These partners include Realtek, Xilinx, Texas Instruments, Wittenstein and Mediatek.
Getting it running
To get the system running, you'll first have to download the ZIP file, which will include the demo projects, as well as the kernel source code. You can then unzip this and move it to an empty folder. Then, you'll have to determine which microcontroller vendors are supported.
After this, you’ll have to build your project, which is made easy by using the demos. You can always replace the source files with your own code.
Market-leading
FreeRTOS is market-leading, with an active community as well as a continually growing userbase. It's a great RTOS, with plenty of support, a functional forum and a significant partnership ecosystem. As it's open-sourced, it's perfect for those looking for all of the benefits with none of the costs.
