using older versions of HI-TECH C compiler
Ian Jeffrey
I have been using HI-TECH compiler version 9.83 in PRO mode for the 45 day evaluation period. Now the evaluation period has run out but I saw that you have the version 9.81 in you tools folder so I loaded that and got another 45 days pro, yeah! You had mentioned that you have been using updated versions of the compiler and each time you get 45 trial of PRO. Unfortunately for me I need to use the PRO mode to fit the catgenius code on the PIC16F877A chip so I was wondering what is the oldest version of the HI-TECH C compiler you have used? I found this site that has older versions of the HI-TECH C compiler:
ftp://Compilers-RO:C0mP!05...@ftp.microchip.com/
Can I use other C compilers? I noticed that you have this line:
#include <htc.h>
Does that mean I have to use HI-TECH C compiler for it to build properly?
Cheers!
ian
Robert Deliën
It seems that MicroChips resets the 45 day trial period to get the hobbyists on the latest and greatest version, immediately creating a big install base. I think that's a clever idea.
Yes, for the older processor, you cannot build without PRO license, unfortunately. The processor's memory is just too small. I can put a new processor on your board though...
I think the oldest version I have used must be arount 8.4x. But MicroChip regularly changes all kinds of macros between compiler releases, so changing compiler version may lead to a lot of weird build problems you need to fix. You could just use a virtual machine, install a fresh compiler and make a snapshot/copy you can restore after 45 days. Put your work on a network drive or in a version control system and Bob's your uncle.
You could use other compilers. We're not using (a lot of) HT proprietary stuff. But there's some work involve. It seems like MC is phasing out the HT compiler, in favor or their own since they have aquired HT.
Yes, <htc.nl> pulls in all the HT proprietary stuff dealing with chip specific stuff. It probably needs to be replaced with something else. I'm using HT because it was the most ANSII C compiler for PIC when it came out. Now it may not make much of a difference anymore.