ARM Compiler Builds on Open Source LLVM Technology

Velocity of open source Clang and LLVM combined with the stability of commercial products improve code quality, performance and power efficiency on ARM processors

April 8, 2014 -- ARM announces the availability of version 6 of the ARM Compiler, the reference code generation toolchain for the ARM® architecture. ARM Compiler 6 adopts the Clang and LLVM open source compiler framework, channeling contributions from the whole ARM Partnership to improve code quality, performance and power efficiency of software on ARM processors.

The flexible and modern Clang and LLVM infrastructure provides a solid foundation for ARM's code generation tools. Clang is a C/C++ compiler front end based on a modular architecture with well-defined interfaces for applying complimentary tools such as code analyzers and code generators. Clang also offers improved diagnostic capabilities, leading to higher quality code and shorter development cycles.

LLVM is an extensible compiler framework which is well suited for advanced code generation techniques such as link-time code generation and just-in-time compilation. LLVM's modular framework makes it easier to develop and test new optimizations, leading to better performing code and lower power consumption.

"ARM has invested heavily in the development and adoption of open source technologies such as Eclipse, GNU, and Clang and LLVM," said Hobson Bullman, general manager of development solutions, ARM. "The ARM Compiler 6 extends this investment even further, bringing together the velocity of open source development with the stability and services that come with commercial products, creating a best-case scenario for ARM's customers."

"Clang and LLVM have become essential technologies for high-volume mobile platforms," said Travis Lanier, director of product management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. "Qualcomm Technologies applauds this decision by ARM to improve Clang and LLVM technology for the benefit of the mobile ecosystem. We look forward to the continued close collaboration with ARM in this area."

ARM is at the forefront of improving LLVM technology for the ARM architecture, contributing architecture support, testing infrastructure, and performance improvements to the open source. ARM Compiler 6 brings LLVM technology to ARM developers as a set of professional development tools with additional benefits:

• Tighter integration: ARM Compiler 6 is a full code generation toolchain consisting of compiler, linker, assembler and libraries. Its integration in the ARM DS-5 Development Studio provides a full C/C++ software development environment
• Optimized for ARM: Highly optimized libraries provide superior performance and code size for embedded applications, maximizing software performance and reducing costs
• Professionally supported and maintained - ARM Compiler 6 and DS-5 are actively supported, validated, documented and maintained by ARM's globally distributed technical experts, ensuring rapid issue resolution and faster time to market
• Commercially licensed - ARM Compiler 6 is GPL-free and distributed under a commercial license, giving users flexibility with regard to ownership of derivative works

Availability

ARM Compiler 6 supports ARM® Cortex®-A50 processor series and is available as part of the DS-5 Development Studio Ultimate Edition, available April 2014. For more information about DS-5 Ultimate Edition and to request an evaluation copy, visit http://ds.arm.com/ds-5-ultimate-edition.

About ARM

ARM is at the heart of the world's most advanced digital products. Our technology enables the creation of new markets and transformation of industries and society. We design scalable, energy efficient-processors and related technologies to deliver the intelligence in applications ranging from sensors to servers, including smartphones, tablets, enterprise infrastructure and the Internet of Things.

Our innovative technology is licensed by ARM Partners who have shipped more than 50 billion Systems on Chip (SoCs) containing our intellectual property since the company began in 1990. Together with our Connected Community, we are breaking down barriers to innovation for developers, designers and engineers, ensuring a fast, reliable route to market for leading electronics companies. Learn more and join the conversation at http://community.arm.com.