OS - Linux

Phidgets can run on Linux directly using USB, or remotely over a network using the Phidget Webservice.

You need kernel version 2.6 or later.

Getting Started (Libraries and Drivers)

The newest Libraries:

• Phidget Libraries
• Phidget C Examples

How to use the libraries:

1. Download libusb-0.1 and its development libraries
   • Try apt-cache search libusb in a terminal to find current packages
   • Or install from source, which includes development libraries
2. Download Phidget Libraries for Linux
   • Unpack them, and in the main directory run:

     ./configure

     make

     sudo make install

   • This will compile phidget21.h and place the library into your gcc path
3. Download the Phidget C Examples and unpack them
4. Compile and run the HelloWorld.c example:

     gcc HelloWorld.c -o HelloWorld -lphidget21
     sudo ./HelloWorld

(The sudo is needed for USB access for now)

The program will simply print out basic information for any device you plug in, and print a message upon unplugging the device. For example, starting the program, plugging in an Interface Kit Phidget, unplugging the Interface Kit, and pressing Enter displays:

   $ sudo ./HelloWorld 
   
   Opening...
   Press Enter to end

   Hello to Device Phidget InterfaceKit 8/8/8, Serial Number: 37299
   Goodbye Device Phidget InterfaceKit 8/8/8, Serial Number: 37299

   Closing...

Recommended Languages

Now that you have the basic libraries installed, you can pick your language and begin programming. You can use the following languages to control Phidgets on Linux. Each page has its own set of specific libraries, code examples, and setup instructions:

• C/C++
• C# (Using Mono)
• Flash AS3
• Java
• Python

Webservice

Before using these webservice drivers, it may help to learn about how the Phidget Webservice works.

• Linux Phidgets Webservice libraries
• The Webservice on Linux uses avahi

Common Problems and Solutions

None yet, yay!

Maybe talk about udev rules?