KuroBox Bounties

Currently, the KuroBox boots off a proprietary / unknown bootcode, and then proceeds to load a stationary kernel (the kernel is fixed on the flash ROM). The kernel is preconfigured to load a root file system on /dev/hda1.

This is a very big constraint to many developers, as it restricts use to the one stock kernel, and requires boot to /dev/hda1 exclusively. Porting U-Boot to the KuroBox's flash would be a boon for our community.

Requirements:

• The Das U-Boot bootloader (from u-boot.sourceforge.net) must run from the KuroBox's onboard flash at boot-time. This should replace the current boot code on the flash ROM.
• The U-Boot bootloader must be able to load a Linux kernel. If patches are needed for the kernel, they must also be submitted.
• The U-Boot configuration must be flexible and modifiable. That is, developers must be able to change and recompile U-Boot to fit their needs (try to load from location X first, then location Y, etc.)
• The firmware must provide for a safe and reliable backup method at boot-time. This can include the stock kernel already in use. Example: U-Boot attempts to load a kernel on the hard-drive. If a kernel cannot be found, U-Boot will then load a kernel already in the flash, and then go into a stipped down root environment (similar, if not identical to the current setup).
• The method of flashing U-Boot to the flash memory must be reliable and safe. This means it must work consistently, with the exception of power loss during flash. The flashing method must be software based.
• Deliverables include the working firmware binaries, source code, and detailed instructions for use. (Detailed is subjective; the target audience is Linux gurus, but not necessarily embedded gurus)
• The entire U-Boot implementation must be independently verifiable.
• The ability to download / boot an image from the network would be great, but is not required. However, if two working solutions are sent to us within the verification phase (one with networking, one without), we will award the prize to the solution with network support.
• The target platform is the KuroBox HG (and the identical HG-WR). The KuroBox Standard would be great as well, but is not a requirement.

Information on past and current attempts to port U-Boot can be found on the forums and wiki.

Note: Do NOT attempt this project unless you know what you're getting into. You should make sure to have a proper JTAG programming device for the chip. Do NOT blindly flash your KuroBox. We will be watching returned KuroBoxes for flash problems, and will NOT replace damaged Kuros due to negligence or misuse.