C Programming in Linux Environment

As you read in the previous article, the important and basic skill required to start is C programming. Learning C language on Linux computer (i.e. PC running Linux operating system) is ideal and it has many advantages than learning on Turbo-C that works in 16 bit DOS mode. Following are some of the advantages:

• Linux is becoming the OS of choice in many embedded systems. So by learning C on Linux, you will become familiar with Linux.
• Using C language and Linux OS, one can develop any kind of application as Linux comes with many useful libraries.
• Linux works in 32 bit protected mode and can detect illegal or invalid usage of pointers. Turbo C, running in DOS (16 bit real mode) can not detect invalid address references. So you may not aware of the errors you are making while using pointers.
• Linux is going to be the Operating System of future and you are going to find it every where from embedded systems to enterprise computers.
• Finally Linux is a free operating system, so you need not use pirated (i.e. illegal) version of Windows OS. Linux OS is open soure, that means the entire source code of Linux OS is available to you. So if you like to understand how OS is working, you can always look into the OS source code and understand.

Step 1

First step is to get hold of some Linux computer. If you know any Linux expert in your circle, take that expert help to install Linux on your computer. Otherwise get Linux live CD from DEPIK by paying Rs.100/-. Read the following article "Using Linux Live CD" to learn how to use this CD from DEPIK to practice C Programming.
Using Linux Live CD

Step 2

Once you are comfortable with writing a small C program, compile and run it on your Linux computer, then you are ready for this step. Download the following book "C Programming in Linux Environment". Read one chapter and understand the sample programs given in that chapter. Next enter these programs on your Linux computer, compile and run them. Once you understood and tried the sample programs, attempt to write and execute the programs given in the assignment of that chapter. Once assignments of this chapter are done, proceed for the next chapter.
C Programming in Linux Environment

Step 3

You can come to this step at any time (i.e. even before finishing any of the above steps). Download and read the following articles to make your concepts clear. Discuss about these concepts with other students by sending mails to CPLE group.
Computer Basics
Computer Architecture Concepts
Operating System Concepts

Step 4

This is the final step and purely optional. This is to test your skills and expertise in the above topics. DEPIK will conduct a comprehensive (Two written and one Viva) tests and will issue a certificate with Marks/Grade. DEPIK is working with the Industry to recognise the DEPIK's certificate and Marks, while companies are doing the campus placements. DEPIK is going to charge Rs.500/- for this test. Companies can obtain the Marks directly from DEPIK.