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MPLAB^® XC8 Compiler

MPLAB® XC8 Compiler

The MPLAB^® XC8 Compiler is a powerful, optimizing compiler that converts your ISO C code into high-assembly-language instructions to use on our 8-bit PIC^®and AVR^® microcontrollers. This compiler offers many command-line options and language extensions that enable full access to the device's hardware features and peripherals and allow you to fine-tune the generated code for your application.

Whether you are working with a low-cost baseline PIC device or a high-performance PIC18 or AVR device, the MPLAB XC8 Compiler will help you create a product that will meet your design goals.

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Compiler Optimizations

Get advanced optimization capabilities, including reduced code size and faster execution, without licensing friction or budget constraints. All MPLAB XC Compiler optimizations are now available at no cost.

MPLAB XC8 Compiler v4.00 and later do not require a key or license to access advanced optimizations. To unlock the premium capabilities of previously paid versions, there is a free license in the software products section of your myMicrochip account.

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MPLAB XC8 C Compiler v4.00 Released

We are pleased to announce the release of MPLAB XC8 version 4.00, which includes several new features and enhancements designed to improve productivity and code quality:

Removed license restrictions for optimization features: All MPLAB XC compilers, including the MPLAB XC8 compiler, are now available without license restrictions, providing all users with full access to compiler optimization capabilities at no cost
Improved assembly debugging support: Enhanced debugging support for assembly code with the ability to add DABS, DS and DB directive defined symbols to watch window, providing a better development and troubleshooting experience
Enhanced code optimization at higher optimization levels: Improved optimization of left and right shift operations at O3 and Os optimization levels produces more efficient generated code
Expanded tools and diagnostics for 8-bit PIC^® devices: New capabilities include an objcopy utility for 8-bit PIC devices, a new DQW directive for 32-bit constants in the PIC-AS assembler and a diagnostic message when branch addresses are out of range.

For more information, please see the MPLAB XC8 compiler release notes.