Open Source Software for Embedded Systems

How viable is open source software (OSS) for embedded systems?

Well, obviously it depends on what microcontroller your system is running. For lower-end micros, it may not (probably won't) be an option. But for 32-bit micros? Hmmm, that's something worth considering...

OK, assuming that your embedded system has enough horsepower -- processing speed and memory, primarily -- what else you you need to think about before basing your product on an open source operating system?

Well, check out this article from Knut Yrvin and Burkhard Stubert at embedded.com: Embedded system design with open source software: doing it right.

There are actually a lot of things to consider, lots of things to think about and weigh before making this decision. Good read.