Boot time optimisation Apalis IMX8QM

Technical Support
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Hello,

I would like to know how to optimize the boot time on an Apalis IMX8QM so that it boots in less than a second.
Even by following the tutorial in this link:

I can’t get below 8 seconds.
How to solve this problem?

BSP6.x.y Yocto kirstone toradex
Apalis IMX8QM v1.1A
Ixora carrier board v1.1A

I have attached 2 screenshots taken with systemd-analysis (systemd.svg) and the boot time at the kernel level (kernel_output.svg)

kernel_output|690x0
systemd

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Hi, I’m the Toradex AI Assistant. I’m in early beta, and I would appreciate your feedback.
The Toradex Support team will follow up with you shortly!

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:+1: :-1:

Hello,

Achieving a boot time of less than a second on the Apalis iMX8QM is a challenging goal due to the complexity of the hardware initialization and the software stack involved. However, there are several strategies you can employ to approach this target. Given the information you’ve provided, including your use of BSP 6.x.y Yocto kirkstone on Toradex and the specific hardware configuration, here are some tailored suggestions:

  1. Review Early Boot Stages: Focus on optimizing the bootloader stages (SPL and U-Boot). This includes minimizing the features and drivers initialized in U-Boot. For instance, disable any hardware interfaces and features not required for your application’s early boot phase.

  2. Kernel Optimization:

    • Custom Kernel Configuration: Streamline your Linux kernel by disabling unnecessary drivers and features. Use the make menuconfig or make xconfig command to review and deselect options that are not needed.
    • Use a Minimal Initramfs: If your application permits, consider using an Initramfs to load only the essential modules and applications needed to start your system.
    • Enable Kernel Features for Faster Boot: Features like CONFIG_SQUASHFS can be used to mount root filesystems faster. Also, consider using CONFIG_INITRAMFS_SOURCE to compile the initial filesystem directly into the kernel.

  3. Systemd Optimizations: Since you’ve used systemd-analyze, focus on services that take the longest to start. Consider the following:

    • Disable Unnecessary Services: Systemd services not critical to your application’s core functionality should be disabled.
    • Use Systemd’s Critical Chain: This tool helps identify which services are critical for the boot process and which can be delayed or started in parallel.

  4. Filesystem Choices: Opt for faster filesystems like SquashFS for read-only parts of your system, combined with a RAM-based filesystem for temporary data.

  5. Application-Level Optimizations: Ensure that your application is optimized for quick startup. This might involve lazy loading of features or prioritizing the initialization sequence of your application components.

  6. Analyze and Profile Boot Time: Continue to use tools like systemd-analyze and consider employing other profiling tools such as Ftrace or Bootchart to get a more detailed understanding of where delays occur.

Achieving sub-second boot times often requires significant customization and optimization of both the hardware initialization sequence and the software stack. It’s a process of

Please, also check if these links can help you solve your problem:

Torizon OS Boot Time Optimization | Toradex Developer Center.

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Dear @jean,

Your account manager will contact you to propose a fitting partner and introduction for your case via email. Please be sure to keep an eye on your inbox, so that you can set up a meeting with him.

Best regards
Collin