Developing embedded Linux applications can be a daunting task—cross-compilation, debugging, and managing target devices often involve complex setups and workflows. That’s where Toradex Torizon VS Code Extension comes in, making the development process smoother, faster, and more intuitive.
In this post, we’ll explore how this powerful extension can help you build, debug, and deploy applications for Toradex’s Torizon ecosystem—all from the comfort of Visual Studio Code.
What Is the Torizon VS Code Extension?
The Torizon VS Code Extension is a tool that integrates seamlessly with the TorizonCore platform, a Linux-based operating system optimized for embedded systems. Designed for developers working on Toradex hardware like Verdin, Colibri, and Apalis, this extension simplifies common workflows such as:
Creating Docker-based applications
Cross-compiling for ARM architectures
Deploying and debugging applications on Torizon-enabled devices
Whether you’re working on a C/C++ application or a Python script this extension provides a unified environment to streamline your development.
Key Features
1. Intuitive Device Management
Connecting to your Toradex device is as simple as powering it on and letting the extension detect it on your local network. Once connected, you can manage the device remotely, run commands, and deploy applications effortlessly
2. Docker Integration
Containers are at the heart of Torizon, and the VS Code extension provides full Docker support:
Pull base images optimized for your Toradex device.
Build and manage Docker containers directly from VS Code.
Deploy containers to your target board with ease.
3. Streamlined Cross-compilation
The extension handles cross-compilation for ARM architectures inside a containerized environment, eliminating the need for setting up complex toolchains manually.
4. Remote Debugging
Debugging embedded applications can be tricky, but the Torizon extension makes it painless. You can:
Set breakpoints in your code.
Debug applications running in a container on your target device.
Analyze performance and fix issues—all from your development machine.
5. Support for Multiple Languages
Whether you’re coding in Python, C/C++, the extension has you covered. You can even combine multiple languages in one project thanks to Docker’s versatility.
Why Choose the Torison VS Code Extension ?
Here are just a few reasons developers love this extension:
Ease of Use: No need to learn complex command-line tools—everything is integrated into VS Code’s intuitive interface.
Reduced Setup Time: With built-in support for Docker, SSH, and cross-compilation, you can focus on development instead of environment configuration.
Tailored for Toradex Hardware: The extension is specifically designed to work seamlessly with Toradex’s ecosystem, ensuring compatibility and reliability.
Accelerated Debugging: Remote debugging saves countless hours by letting you test applications directly on the target device.
Getting Started
Install the Extension:Open VS Code, navigate to the Extensions view, search for Torizon, and install the extension.
Connect Your Device:Power up your Toradex hardware running TorizonCore, ensure it’s on the same network as your development PC, and let the extension detect it.
Create a New Project:Use the built-in project templates to start a new application. Choose your preferred programming language and let the extension handle the rest.
Build, Deploy, and Debug:Use the extension’s tools to containerize your application, deploy it to your device, and debug it—all from within VS Code.
LVGL on Toradex boards
Exciting news! A new example is on the way, providing the perfect starting point for deploying LVGL applications on your board. This repository will serve as a solid foundation for building your own custom applications.
This feature will debut with the release of Torizon OS 7.x—stay tuned for updates!