Is GCC a cross compiler?
The GCC cross-compiler works just like your local version: It just creates a different type of executable for an alternate platform. This means that you can use the same command-line options, such as header and library locations, optimization, and debugging.
What type of compiler is called cross compiler?
A cross compiler is a compiler capable of creating executable code for a platform other than the one on which the compiler is running. For example, a compiler that runs on a PC but generates code that runs on Android smartphone is a cross compiler. Cross compilers are distinct from source-to-source compilers.
What is a cross compiler toolchain?
Quite often, the toolchain used for embedded development is a cross toolchain, or more commonly known as a cross compiler. All the programs (like GCC) run on a host system of a specific architecture (such as x86), but they produce binary code (executables) to run on a different architecture (for example, ARM).
Why do you need a cross compiler for osdev?
You need a cross-compiler for operating system development, otherwise a lot of unexpected things can happen because the compiler assumes that your code is running on your host operating system. Generally speaking, a cross-compiler is a compiler that runs on platform A (the host ), but generates executables for platform B (the target ).
Where does the term cross compile come from?
Now take the cross compile scenario: So cross compilation happens when the source code compiler is targeting a different operating system than the one it is currently hosted in. A bit clearer should this picture make: It should now be obvious where the term cross compilation comes from…
What kind of target does gcc cross compiler use?
This compiler that we build here will have a generic target (i686-elf) what allows you to leave the current operating system behind, meaning that no headers or libraries of your host operating system will be used.
Is it possible to install multiple cross compilers?
You can install several cross-compilers that way, simply by changing target designations. An unfortunate downside is that it will also pull in gentoo patches and pass additional configure options that differ from the official GCC Cross-Compiler setup, and they might behave differently.