Decreasing build time

Introduction

For large projects, long build times can be a problem.

Solution hints

1. Enable Parallel Build (Tools > Options > Project > Enable parallel build). On a multi-core computer, this leads to reduced build times. Note: This option is not available in older IAR Embedded Workbench releases.
   
   
2. Make sure to use guard conditions in ALL header files. That is...

   #ifndef __HFILE_H
   #define __HFILE_H
    /* ... */
   #endif

   .. and also check if it is possible to reduce the number of #includes in some of the source files. This could have great impact on build speed.
   
   To see the size of each C-file with header files included, enable: Options > C/C++ Compiler > Preprocessor > "Preprocessor output to file". Then check the generated .i-file. Is it large?
   
   
3. Create pre-built libraries of "support"-code (BSPs, stacks etc) that does not have to be re-built with every modification of the application code.
   
   
4. Disable the generation of compiler list files (Options > C/C++ Compiler > List).
   
   
5. If some source files are located on a network drive (even if it is a RAM disk on the server), try copying the files to a "local" drive, and build there. If it goes faster, there might be a network filesystem (NFS/Samba) problem.
   
   
6. If step 5 above helped (use a local drive), it may help to only place Object files and List files on a local drive. Modify Project > Options > General Options > Output. Configure "Object files" and "List files" to be placed locally.
   
   
7. (General hints): See technical note 40547.

All product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.