RTX adds real-time capabilities to Windows, providing precise control of IRQs, I/O, and memory. Described as a "true extension in that it does not encapsulate Windows, and does not interfere with or modify the Windows infrastructure," RTX allows code to be built as Windows executables (EXE) that run in User Mode (Ring 3) to utilize memory protection, or as real-time subsystem (RTSS) executables that run in Kernel Mode (Ring 0) for maximum performance.
RTX architecture allows running code in Ring 3 or Ring 0New features in version 8.1 of RTX include support for MSI-capable devices, providing an alternative to line-based interrupts (IRQs). This eliminates restrictive hardware IRQ conflicts and allows use of a broad array of PCI and PCI Express devices, Ardence says.
RTX also now includes an enhanced TCP/IP stack, which runs independent of Windows. It supports IPv4, IPv6, RAW sockets, and Jumbo frames.
Other improvements in RTX, version 8.1, are said to be:
- Shared multiprocessor support for Windows Vista, complementing existing uniprocessor and dedicated multiprocessor capabilities
- Enhanced kernel debugging, via newly available IEEE 1394 and USB connection capabilities
- Timer periods as low as one microsecond
A key competitor for RTX is Tenasys'
INtime, which was said to have gained Vista and MSI support with the release of version 3.1 last year.
AvailabilityIn addition to Windows XP Embedded, RTX works with Windows XP Professional, Server 2003, Server 2000, and 2000. Version 6.1 is "available immediately," though pricing was not cited.
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