Precision timing on low-cost Linux microcomputers

Recent years have seen a significant number of low-cost (sub-$100) Linux-based microcontroller systems introduced to the market. Initially targeted to the educational and hobbyist markets, the low cost, small physical package, low power consumption and high compute capability of these microcontrollers has made them interesting to research and technical communities. Many of the applications these platforms are being used for require precise timing to measure physical phenomena and coordinate with other computers.