Optimization

Linux real-time performance tuning requires a system-level approach that coordinates configuration across platform firmware, kernel behavior, and user-space execution. Real-time performance is not achieved through a single parameter or kernel setting, but through consistent and aligned configuration across all system layers to ensure deterministic and predictable behavior.

key Areas of Performance Tuning

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The following key areas are commonly evaluated and adjusted during Linux real-time performance tuning:

Category	Checklist Item
Platform & BIOS Configuration	Disable CPU power-saving states (C-States, C1E, Package C-State) Disable dynamic frequency scaling (Intel SpeedStep / Turbo Boost) Configure deterministic timers (TSC sync / HPET) Disable unused peripherals
CPU Core Allocation & Isolation	Allocate dedicated CPU cores for real-time tasks Configure CPU isolation Set CPU affinity to prevent task migration Avoid oversubscription on RT cores
Bootloader & Kernel Parameter Configuration	Configure kernel parameters such as isolcpus, nohz_full, rcu_nocbs Limit CPU idle states Ensure kernel command line aligns with real-time design
User Space & System Services Control	Disable unnecessary systemd services Disable GUI/Desktop on industrial systems Turn off automatic updates and background jobs Minimize logging and monitoring impact
Memory Allocation & Management	Lock memory using mlockall() Disable or strictly control swap usage Pre-allocate memory buffers Avoid dynamic memory allocation in real-time paths
Performance Measurement & Validation	Measure latency and jitter using real-time benchmarks Focus on worst-case latency Validate under high system load Perform long-duration stability testing

Performance Improvement

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Advantech's Embedded Software team provides highly optimized real-time system configurations, along with fully validated and rigorously tested Preempt-RT and Xenomai solutions. When deployed on Advantech devices, these solutions significantly enhance the system's real-time computing capabilities and ensure optimal real-time performance.

Component Deliverables

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As part of our Real-Time System Engineering service, we provide a complete and auditable set of deliverables to ensure technical transparency, system maintainability, and long-term operability.

Deliverable	Description	Customer Value
Real-time Kernel	Real-time enabled Linux kernel installation package, including PREEMPT-RT or Xenomai integration	Full ownership, auditability, and long-term support
Configuration & Build Scripts	Kernel configuration files, build scripts, and reproducible build environments	Fast re-builds, version control, and CI/CD integration
Performance Report	Detailed real-time benchmark results (latency, jitter, IRQ response), before and after optimization	Quantifiable proof of real-time performance
User & Integration Guide	Documentation covering system setup, tuning parameters, and integration best practices	Faster onboarding and reduced integration risk
Knowledge Transfer Session	Technical walkthrough and Q&A sessions with engineering teams	Internal capability building and smoother handover

For real-time enablement and optimization services, please contact Advantech Embedded Software Services.