how to compile or install package in busybox based system?

i'm new to embedded linux.

i have an linux-based IPTV box called TVPAD2 that's been out of commission, it's based on busybox and i've gained root access to it. I'd like to play with it to learn about embedded linux.

one of the first thing i want to do is to install a ntp package to sync with internet time server. i downloaded 'ntpclient' from http://doolittle.icarus.com/ntpclient/. but i couldn't figure out how to compile the package in busybox.

any hints on what should i do?

Easiest might be to cross-compile for the ARM processor on another system. You may need to compile and add missing libraries as well. You may be able to determine info about the tool chain that was used by examining the binaries. Since it's GPL I'm sure the vendor would be happy to assist [sarcasm tag].

Not totally impossible but without knowing anything about the box it will be difficult. In most cases the SBC does not have enough storage space for a full development system so you will need to setup a cross compiler on your desktop system assuming you can determine the its architecture type. Once compiled you need to figure out how to upload the program into the box and how to save it to flash memory (I assume).

You might check the version of busybox. It currently does have a ntp command builtin.

thanks for advice!

I'll look into cross-compiler for ARM. probably more hassle than i first realized when it comes to transfer to the box since it's equipped with standard hdmi/microSD/USB. if it's required to open up the box for accessing programming header, i'm not sure i could do that.

on a positive note, it turns out the busybox already has 'ntpd' included, so i could sync the time without problem.