Application Interface between a PC and an embedded device

Question

Hi,

How can I make an application interface so that a PC application can communicate to an embedded device like a POS terminal?

Like for example, an embedded device like POS terminal that has an embedded linux as an OS. Then I want a PC application to communicate in that POS terminal and access its module hardware like for example its magnetic stripe reader. What implementation should I create in the device, should I use CORBA or something related in that technology so that a PC application can communicate in the POS terminal?

Many thanks.

Edit:

The connection between the PC and the POS terminal is a serial.

Answer 1

Just make a simple text-based menu interface that can be accessed via telnet or ssh, then make a pretty interface on the host PC that "pushes the buttons" so to speak.

Answer 2

How are you going to connect your PC to the POS terminal? Most likely RS232 (serial) or maybe Ethernet/Wi-Fi. That should dictate how you're going to create your interface.

For serial connections, my recommendation would be a simple command-line prompt. It's easier to write and easier to debug. Write a parser that takes commands and responds accordingly.

For TCP/IP, how about a web interface? Or a telnet interface to a command-line prompt (like the serial connection).