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MPLAB^® XC-DSC Compiler

MPLAB® XC DSC Compiler

The MPLAB^® XC-DSC C/C++ compiler is a full-featured, optimizing compiler that translates standard ANSI C programs into Digital Signal Controller (DSC) device assembly language sources. This compiler also supports many command-line options and language extensions that allow full access to the DSC device hardware capabilities and gives users fine control of the compiler code generator.

The MPLAB XC-DSC C compiler supports the dsPIC^® family of DSCs; this product family combines the high performance of Digital Signal Processor (DSP) applications with the standard microcontroller (MCU) features of embedded applications.

The MPLAB XC-DSC compiler is a natural evolution of the MPLAB XC16 compiler and the recommended compiler to use with dsPIC Digital Signal Controllers (DSCs) going forward.

Optimize Your Projects With the Right Compiler

The MPLAB XC-DSC compiler is specifically optimized for dsPIC DSCs and will support both existing and future dsPIC33 devices. For any new projects involving dsPIC33 devices, we recommend transitioning to the MPLAB XC-DSC compiler. However, if your new projects involve PIC24 MCUs, the MPLAB XC16 compiler would be the most suitable.

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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 XC-DSC Compiler v4.00 and later do not require a key 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 XC-DSC C/C++ Compiler v4.00 Released

Upgrade to the MPLAB XC-DSC C/C++ compiler version 4.00 to access new language support, faster floating-point performance, improved code generation and enhanced tooling support:

Removed license restrictions for optimization features: All MPLAB XC compilers, including MPLAB XC-DSC compiler, are now available without license restrictions, providing full access to compiler optimization capabilities at no cost
Added C++ language support for DSC devices: Develop C++ firmware for PIC24 MCUs and dsPIC DSCs. This support enables the use of classes, templates and object-oriented design patterns in embedded applications
Improved floating-point performance on dsPIC33AK devices: On dsPIC33AK targets, the hypotf() function now maps directly to the native SQRT.S and SQRT.D Floating-Point Unit (FPU) instructions instead of invoking a software library. This change reduces flash memory usage and execution time without requiring source code changes
Reduced flash memory usage through improved code generation: The compiler automatically generates more compact output for common patterns, such as fixed-size struct copies using aligned word moves instead of byte-by-byte loops, bit-test conditions on dsPIC33A devices using the BTST instruction instead of AND plus CP; and elimination of redundant register loads when using the __builtin_flim intrinsic
Enabled disassembly of RAM-resident functions for code analysis: The xc-dsc-objdump utility can now disassemble the .ramfunc section, providing visibility into optimized assembly for time-critical routines that execute from RAM. This enhancement also allows field engineers analyze customer binaries without requiring access to source code

For more information, please see the MPLAB XC-DSC release notes.