2.2 Compiler Description and Documentation

The MPLAB XC32 C/C++ Compiler is a full-featured, optimizing compiler that translates standard C programs into 32-bit device assembly language code. The toolchain supports the PIC32C/SAM microcontroller families based on a variety of Arm® Cortex®-Mx and Ax cores. The compiler also supports many command-line options and language extensions that allow full access to the 32-bit device hardware capabilities, and affords fine control of the compiler's code generator.

The compiler is based on GCC, the GNU Compiler Collection, from the Free Software Foundation.

The compiler is available for several popular operating systems, including Windows®, Linux® and macOS®.

The compiler can run in Free or PRO operating mode. The PRO operating mode is a licensed mode and requires an activation key and Internet connectivity to enable it. Free mode is available for unlicensed customers. The basic compiler operation, supported devices and available memory are identical across all modes. The modes only differ in the level of optimization employed by the compiler.