Ristkompilaattori

Ristkompilaattori is a term used to describe a compiler that runs on one type of computer architecture or operating system and produces executable code for a different architecture or operating system. This is in contrast to a native compiler, which generates code for the same system it is running on. Cross-compilers are essential for developing software for embedded systems, mobile devices, and platforms where development tools are not readily available.

The process of cross-compilation involves using a cross-development toolchain, which typically includes a cross-compiler, a cross-linker, and a cross-assembler. These tools are specifically built to target the desired destination architecture. For instance, a developer might use a cross-compiler running on a Windows PC to build an application for a Linux-based embedded device.

Key reasons for using cross-compilers include the limited resources of target systems. Many embedded systems, such as microcontrollers, lack the processing power or memory to host a full development environment. Cross-compilation allows developers to leverage the power of their desktop or server machines for the compilation process, while deploying the resulting executable to the resource-constrained target. Another common use case is developing software for different processor architectures, like ARM processors found in smartphones, from a desktop computer typically running x86 architecture. This enables efficient development across a wide range of hardware platforms.