What is eLua?

eLua stands for Embedded Lua and the project aims to introduce the programming language Lua to the embedded software development world.



Lua is the perfect example of a minimal, yet fully functional language. Although generally advertised as a "scripting language" (and used accordingly especially in the game industry), it is also fully capable of running stand-alone programs. Its limited resource requirements make it suitable to a lot of microcontroller families.

The aim of the project is to have a fully functional Lua development environment on the microcontroller itself, without the need to install a specific toolchain on the PC side. Initially, a PC will still be needed in order to edit the Lua programs for the microcontroller. But as the project evolves this requirement will be relaxed, as a basic editor (also residing on the microcontroller) will be usable with a variety of input/output devices.



ARM microcontrollers were chosen for the first implementations given their popularity, availability and small cost. But support for other architectures is on the way. Please check the Status Page for updated info on supported platforms and features.