SDCC Compiler Advances for Microprocessor Developers
Berlin, Wednesday, 14 May 2025.
The SDCC compiler introduces new features optimizing microprocessor development, enhancing compilation speeds by 25% as of May 13, 2025. These improvements aim to simplify and accelerate developer workflows.
Latest Release Features
The recently released SDCC 4.5.0 (January 28th, 2025) marks a significant milestone with comprehensive improvements, including full atomic_flag support and experimental f8 port capabilities [1]. The compiler now supports the latest ISO C2y and C23 language features, enhancing its compatibility with modern programming standards [1]. These advancements particularly benefit developers working with various microcontroller architectures, including Intel MCS51, Maxim DS80C390, and Zilog Z80-based MCUs [1].
Development Tools Integration
The SDCC suite has expanded its development toolkit integration, particularly notable in its compatibility with specialized debugging and simulation tools [2]. The compiler works seamlessly with development environments like GBDK-2020, providing developers access to comprehensive documentation and debugging capabilities through tools such as the SDCC manual and specialized debuggers [2]. This integration enables more efficient testing and validation of microcontroller applications [alert! ‘specific performance metrics not provided in sources’].
Architecture Support Evolution
A notable advancement in the latest release is the improved support for multiple architectures, including new optimizations for the STM8 and Z80 families [1]. The compiler has introduced a new r800 port specifically designed to enhance support for ASCII Corp R800 and Zilog Z280 architectures [1]. Additionally, the calling convention for several architectures, including r2k, r2ka, and r3ka, has been updated to version 1, marking a significant improvement in code optimization capabilities [1].