MPLAB® XC: Compiler Solutions for Any PIC and Any Project
Microchip’s latest compiler line, the MPLAB® XC, provides a comprehensive solution for your project’s development software needs and replaces all MPLAB® C and HI-TECH compilers. The MPLAB® XC compiler:
- Supports all 8-, 16- and 32- bit PIC MCUs and dsPIC® DSCs
- Integrates with MPLAB® X IDE to provide a full graphical front end:
- Editing errors and breakpoints match the corresponding lines in source code
- Single step through C and C++ source code to inspect variables and structures at critical points
- Data structures with defined data types, including floating point, display in watch windows
- Runs on Windows, Linux and Mac OS X
- Offers different optimization levels to suit your needs with FREE downloads available
MPLAB® XC32++ Compiler – Free Offer
The MPLAB® XC32++ compiler adds the flexibility to develop and reuse C++ projects and components for all 32 bit MCU devices with the following benefits:
- Compliant with the majority of C++98 and C++2003 ANSI standards
- Includes Dinkumware Standard C++ library
- Can be used with all C++ or mixed C/C++ projects in MPLAB® XC
- All Microchip C language extensions are available for use
Microchip is offering a special edition of our C++ compiler software completely free for filling out a short registration.
Which Compiler Is Right For You?
Use the table to match your Microchip PIC MCU product with its corresponding compiler. Click on the license type to take you directly to the product in Microchip Direct.
Microchip’s PIC to Compiler Compatibility Table
PRO |
Standard |
Free** Click Downloads on Left |
C++ |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PIC 10/12/16/18 MCUs |
MPLAB® XC 8 |
MPLAB® XC 8 |
MPLAB® XC 8 |
MPLAB® XC 8 Not Available |
| PIC 24 MCUs dsPIC DSCs |
MPLAB® XC 16 |
MPLAB® XC 16 |
MPLAB® XC 16 |
MPLAB® XC 16 |
| PIC 32 MCUs |
MPLAB® XC 32 |
MPLAB® XC 32 |
MPLAB® XC 32 |
**NOTE - *Free version includes a 60-day PRO evaluation that can be started at any time in the software.
Free Migration from MPLAB® C and HI-TECH Compilers to MPLAB® XC
Microchip is supporting its legacy compilers, MPLAB® C and HI-TECH, by offering free migration to the MPLAB® XC for our existing users. It is recommended that all new designs be created with the MPLAB® XC as the legacy systems are being phased out.
When migrating, your existing compiler will remain intact. The new MPLAB® XC compiler will be installed as an addition to your existing compiler, allowing for the continued support of your current designs.
A Note About MPLAB® C18 Migration
MPLAB® XC 8 is not backward compatible with MPLAB® C18 at this time. Although you can migrate to MPLAB® XC 8 at any time using the information found at the Migrate Now button above, it is recommended that you continue to use your MPLAB® C18 compiler for your previous designs.
Edition Types
MPLAB® XC Compiler PRO Edition:
- Provides powerful code optimization at better than 50% when compared to the free edition, giving the most efficient memory usage
- Available as single-user, node-locked licenses or floating network licenses
MPLAB® XC Compiler Standard Edition:
- Provides a lower cost compiler option with a 20-25% code optimization when compared to the free edition
- Available as single-user, node-locked licenses or floating network licenses
MPLAB® XC Free Edition:
- Supports all the devices and commands of the Standard and PRO Editions
- No time or memory restrictions
- Limited code optimizations
- Unrestricted use—ideal for a low-cost academic or commercial solution
- Allows for all the code optimization and commands of the PRO Edition for 60 days – you decide when to turn it on.
- An option to activate the use of the PRO Edition features and optimizations is included. After 60 days, the compiler will revert back to the levels of the Free Edition
License Types
Workstation License
- Intended for use by a single user
- Can be installed on up to three workstations, i.e. a desktop, laptop and tablet
Network Server License
- Intended to have multiple users and can be installed on a network
- Restricted to use by one user at a time. The license is available to the other users one hour after a compile takes place.
- Might otherwise require a large number of compilers
- Great for use by global companies with multiple design centers
- Has a loan-out feature so that a license can be run like node locked for a specific amount of time
Compiler Maintenance and Support
MPLAB® XC PRO and Standard compilers both come with 12 months of High Priority Access (HPA), and support and maintenance subscriptions. HPA access must be renewed at the end of twelve months. HPA includes:
- Priority technical support
- New part support
- New architecture support
- New compiler version and patch level updates
Legacy MPLAB® C and HI-TECH Compilers
All new designs should be created with the MPLAB® XC as the legacy systems will be phased out. All data on the legacy systems can be found here.
