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GPL'd Embedded Development Tools?

Posted by Cliff on from the open-source-in-every-niche dept.

An Anonymous Coward queries: "Is anyone aware of free tools available for embedded digital signal processors? A number of companies (such as, I think, Motorola) used to produce DSP-optimized versions of gcc and the like for their embedded processors, but these days such code seems to be lost. I am a student trying to do homebrew DSP development for some RF apps, and the cost of all the development tools is staggering (not to mention none of them seem to run under Linux). The sole factor in deciding which DSP I use is the availability of development tools -- any suggestions?"

1 of 10 comments (clear)

  1. Free/cheap tools by Opusnbill7 · · Score: 2, Interesting

    I know that TI used to have free compilers available on the web for their older DSPs (c3x,c4x), but I'm not sure about the newer models (67xx,64xx). They also have a program in place where they will donate tools to schools that lack the funding to purchase them, if they can show they will be used for educational purposes. (This may have changed in the current economic climate, but I hope not.) I think it was called TI University Support, but I'm not positive. Look around their site and hopefully you'll find something useful. I experimented with the GNU compilers for the c3x series and didn't have much luck...but YMMV. Good luck! DSP programming can be very frustrating but also very rewarding. :)