Saving up to 50% memory
How is it done? Well, instead of using a conventional runtime to run programs written in Java, the MicroDoc solution uses GraalVM. This saves between 30 and 50 % memory depending on the application. In this way the memory of a 32-bit CPU, which is relatively limited compared to a 64-bit system, can cope with new features, integrate with new 3rd party software, and handle security updates.
Besides saving memory, the software also improves startup time significantly.
– Using GraalVM our customers can continue to develop new features for these older devices. Also, developers can use the new versions of the Java programming language, instead of having to use an old Java version for 32-bit CPUs. That means developers have access to new and cool Java features, instead of being stuck in an older Java version. Developers no longer have to write software like you did 10 years ago. They can use the newest Java features, even for the old 32-bit platform.
In their effort to build a bridge between the “old iron” and the newest Java programming features, Bruno Caballero and his team are targeting the two dominant 32-bit platforms. They have already covered ARM 32, which is the most common 32-bit platform, and soon they’ll begin adapting their work to Intel’s 32-bit platform as well.
Electronic railway control system
Currently, a large MicroDoc customer has ordered a platform port for one of their embedded products on 32bit x86 hardware. The company is specializing in control and automation solutions for the railway sector. Its traffic control systems manage train traffic, with vast numbers of sensors monitoring tracks, catenary systems, switches, traffic lights and much more. Electronic railway control systems are hugely complex, not least as strong redundancy is required for safety reasons. In many places, several devices monitor the same component, to reduce risk of failure. Therefore, it’s vital to be able to extend their lifetime, guarantee device security, and continuously update them.
– There is a huge number of ageing devices out there that need to be revitalized, across all kinds of industries, says Bruno Caballero.
– We have developed a unique solution to do just that, and we are looking forward to helping companies to keep their ageing devices in tip-top shape for as long as possible. Not only can we keep these devices alive. We can improve them by turbocharging their memory, while giving Java developers optimal working conditions by allowing them to update them with the newest Java tools.