A Flexible Real-Time Operating System for Demanding Communication Technology
With ellan:RTOS, we have developed a real-time operating system that has been running reliably in our custom communication systems for over 30 years. It was designed for high security, short startup times, efficient resource utilization, and flexible adaptability — without the drawbacks of classic PC operating systems such as slow boot phases, high power consumption, or unnecessary complexity.
Modular and tailored to the target system
ellan:RTOS is fully modular. Only the actually required stacks are integrated — from IP protocols to audio processing. The software is compiled together with the application directly into the final firmware. This guarantees minimal system load, maximum efficiency, and a clean separation between infrastructure and application.
Typical Function Modules (Selection)
TCP/IP Communication
UDP, ICMP, SNMP, VLAN, NTP, VPN
Routing
PPPoE, xDSL, DNS Proxy, NAPT
VoIP Protocols
SIP, IAX2, H.323
HTTP/FTP Server
Configuration, file exchange, updates
Email Function
SMTP, POP3, IMAP for status messages
ISDN Support
S0, UK0, UP0, S2M (NT/TE)
USB & Serial Interfaces
Host, OTG, CAN, SPI, UART, MIDI, RS485
Audio/DSP Modules
Codec computation, echo cancellation, filters, equalizer
Radio Modules
433/868 MHz, LTE, 5G, Satellite
Parameter Management
XML, FTP, TFTP, Terminal
Energy Optimization and Restart Times
ellan:RTOS is designed for energy-optimized operation. It offers intelligent power management with battery charging via solar as well as extremely short response times on restart — ideal for off-grid or mobile applications.
Dual-CPU Architecture and Platform Independence
For more complex applications, ellan:RTOS can be coupled with a secondary CPU, e.g., for graphical user interfaces (Android/Linux), while real-time functions continue to be handled by the secure core. Porting to new platforms is efficient thanks to the modular structure.
Cooperation Models & Licensing
Our customers decide flexibly:
- Per-unit licensing — depending on scope & volume
- Flat-rate licenses — e.g., for series products
- Source code transfer — for customers with their own further development needs
- Full purchase with key generator — optionally with own OUI for MAC generation
All variants are field-proven and can be supplemented with bootloaders, MAC assignment, and support packages.
Security by Design
The system supports hardware-based access controls, secure update procedures, optional stack-level encryption (e.g. CAN, VoIP), and isolation of critical communication paths through system architecture.