I have been scouring the net trying to find a clear definitive guide to getting started with embedded Linux. I have only found vague answers to my questions. I really am hoping that someone can give me some clear answers and advice.

I am used to programming microprocessors with an IDE and JTAG debugger. I really like all the benefits of developing with an IDE. The biggest advantage for me is being able to single step and view variables at run time.
Can I do this with a Linux based board? Everything I have read so far refers to terminals, make files etc. Programming and debugging this way can be time consuming especially when you are new to whole environment. I have been through this before.

I have seen some references to Eclipse that have the ability to set break points and single step but it wasn't clear how this worked. Can you literally single step your code on the target device and if so how exactly does it work?

I would like to buy a development kit with an ARM but I want to be sure that the kit is well documented, has sample code, is preloaded with Linux and will allow me to develop and debug with an IDE. I looked at the TS series from Technologic Systems. Is this a good choice for getting started?

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