What Makes an OS an RTOS?
Migration to next generation processors is also easier because of the hardware abstraction provided by a real-time kernel and associated peripheral support software. The applications make use of the operating system by making requests for services through a defined application program interface (API). A general-purpose operating system performs these services for applications: • In a multitasking operating system where multiple programs can be running at the same time, the operating system determines which applications should run in what order and how much time should be allowed for each application before giving another application a turn. • It manages the sharing of internal memory among multiple applications. • It handles input and output to and from attached hardware devices, such as hard disks, printers, and dial-up ports. • It sends messages to each application or interactive user about the status of operation and any errors that may have occurred. • It can offload the management
