Allegro: GCC FAQ

GCC Support FAQ

What is GCC?

GCC stands for the "Gnu Compiler Collection", a free suite of compilers and related tools developed by volunteers all over the world using the "open source" development model. GCC is licenced under the GNU General Public License, which requires that the software and its source code be freely available.

GCC used to stand for the "GNU C Compiler", but the new name reflects the fact that GCC is actually a collection of compilers that includes C and C++, but also includes languages like Java and Fortran, and others (including COBOL) are being developed.

Currently GCC is the only C++ compiler available for MPE/iX, and the GCC C compiler is the tool of choice for porting software to the HP e3000. It is used extensively inside HP in support of projects such as Java/iX and the HP WebWise Secure Web Server for the HP e3000.

Which compilers from the collection work on MPE?

Today the primary use of GCC on the 3000 is for its world class C and C++ language compilers. The following languages are also provided in the current distribution but have so far seen little use on MPE/iX: Chill, Objective C, Fortran 77, and Java.

Java support is currently compile-only, as the native runtime support will not be available until HP addresses some threading issues in MPE/iX. The GCC Java compiler can be used as an alternative to the Sun Java compiler to produce Java Bytecode .class files. When the native runtime is available, the GCC Java compiler will let you compile Java applications into true Native Mode program files.

There are currently GNU projects working on Pascal, COBOL, and improved Fortran compilers. When these compilers become part of the mainline GCC code, we hope to bring them to MPE/iX.

The software is free, so why should I pay you for support?

Allegro and DIS are going into the business of offering commercial support for GCC on MPE/iX not so much to get rich as to ensure that the latest GCC tools continue to be available, and that those customers who will only use "supported" products have someone to turn to in the event of problems. Of course we have to be able to make enough money to justify doing this instead of something else!

The income from GCC support contracts will allow Allegro to provide our customers with the security of knowing that they have someone to turn to when they run into issues using the "free" compiler software, and it will begin to provide some compensation to Mark Klein for all of the hard work that he has been doing on his own time to port, promote, maintain, and support GCC on MPE.

By working with Mark on new development, Allegro will also provide a backup knowlege base so that customers are not dependent on a single person for the continuation of a critical component of their infrastructure. Not that we're worried about Mark flying into a mountain or anything like that.

Can I get GCC support from HP or someone else?

Currently we're the only source for GCC support for MPE/iX that we know of. Since GCC is "free" software, anyone can go into the business of offering support or consulting services for it.

By signing up with Allegro, you have the advantage of Allegro's many years of MPE/iX compiler and internals knowledge, professional support and development staff, and of course Mark Klein, the original porter of GCC to MPE and the current guru of GCC porting, development, and support.

In addition, we intend to use proceeds from the support business to fund further porting and enhancement efforts for GCC on MPE. By signing up for support, you're supporting the future of GCC on the 3000, and you'll have a chance to influence which new enhancements get worked on.

So what do I get for my money?

For your US$1,995.00, you'll get one year of "Response Center" level support for the latest version of the GNU Compiler Collection for MPE/iX. This includes unlimited telephone and email support for two authorized callers within your organization. You'll also get the opportunity to vote on which enhancements or porting efforts you would like to see us work on.

What if I have more than one HP e3000?

Since the GCC software itself is free, we don't care how many HP e3000 systems you have. The support price is based on two authorized callers, which means you will need to route all GCC support requests through a primary and alternate designated individual in your organization. This would typically be a Develoment Manager or Lead Programmer, or a System Mamnager. By limiting the number of callers, we can more effectively coordinate when you encounter multiple problems rather than having people from all over your organization calling us at once.

Will you debug my programs for me?

Nope. Just as with compiler support form HP, we're here to help you install and use the software, answer questions about using it, and help resolve issues regarding the compiler itself, but you're responsible for finding and fixing your own bugs in your own programs.

What if I need 24x7 coverage or more than two authorized callers?

Just give us a call and we'll work something out for you.

How do I sign up?

For further information, questions, or if you're ready to sign up, give Allegro a call at +1 (408)252-2330 or send an email to info@allegro.com.