Simulating target on PC

Question

I'm doing a project in C language that runs on a target with vxWorks operating system. I would like to run my code on PC also for two reasons:

1. The HW of the target is not available yet, and i want to start testing my SW.
2. Even when the target will be ready it will be easier for me perform testing and simulations on a PC.

Is there some interesting way to do it?

Thanks.

Answer 1

You have three choices:

1. Use the VxWorks Simulator (vxsim) - it's part of the Workbench and can be accessed like a real target
   • Pros:
     • Easy to to use
     • Integrated into workbench
     • Debug functionality and good control of the system
     • Doesn't need any further hardware
     • Documentation (check Wind River VxWorks Simulator User's Guide)
   • Cons:
     • Not the real target system (but this is a con for all points here)
2. Use a x86 machine and boot eg. through ftp
   • Pros:
     • You can test booting via network and network
   • Cons:
     • The system may lack of drivers
     • Possible you have to change kernel
     • Debug is not as good as vxsim
     • The difference to your target may be realy big
3. Use a Virtual Maschine
   • Pros:
     • Runs on same pc - no further hardware required
     • Possible to test several bootloaders
   • Cons:
     • Not possible to simulate the target cpu etc.
     • A VM is not the best way for VxWorks testing

As Archie, I recommend you the VxWorks Simulator too.