Networked tools simplify software development

-- EDN, 1/6/2000

New software-development tools from IBM promise to enable businesses to build applications that connect embedded devices to enterprise back-end systems over the Internet. Applications include vehicle communications systems, personal digital assistants, mobile phones, and home networks.

IBM's VisualAge Micro Edition includes a team-oriented IDE for embedded-Java applications. Team development allows designers at remote locations worldwide to share code via a wide-area-network. Additional host-development tools include the remote debugger, Java compiler, profiler, editor, and smart linker.

The embedded-processor runtime support includes the Java virtual machine, target optimized class libraries, user-interface routines and transmission-control protocol/Internet Protocol connectivity. The VisualAge Micro Edition supports PowerPC, x86, MIPS, and SH4 processors.

The complete VisualAge Micro Edition package will be available in March. Prices for IBM business partners start at $1000 (OEM). A free evaluation copy of the software is available for downloading at www.ibm.com/software/ad/embedded.

IBM, 1-212-745-3807, www.ibm.com/software/ad.

-by Warren Webb