Compiler Versus Integrated Development Environment Interfaces

There are two distinct platforms used for translating source code into an executable file

. One way is to use a compiler interface, which consists of writing code in a text editor, and then compiling the code with a separate console based compiler. The other is to use an integrated development interface (IDE). An IDE is a much more intricate piece of software and comes with tools to write and compile a program from within itself. Both have their advantages in different situations. Determining which solution is best for a project is important in ensuring that the programmer is working in an environment that is not only efficient but also somewhat ergonomic.

Using a command-based compiler is the older of the two methods. To accomplish this task source code must first be written in a text editor. There are many text editors available that will color and format the code in a way that is easy to troubleshoot and organize. After the code is written it must be compiled using a separate piece of software called a compiler. Compilers are text command-based programs that turn source code into executable programs. They are also language specific, which means that a C++ compiler will only compile C++ code.

An IDE can be thought of as a really nice text editor with a built in compiler. This type of software usually comes with predefined functions, thorough debuggers, database utilities, project tools, and a wide array of other options to help aid and enhance the programming experience. The GUI interface is attractive to most new programmers who are used to using a mouse and GUI to navigate through their files. This is much faster if they are new to the console commands, which need to be committed to memory before a programmer can be fully efficient in that type of environment. There are IDE suites that come with compilers and tools for multiple languages. This means that multiple languages can be compiled with the same menu option.

At first glance it may seem unclear as to why using a text editor and compiler would be more beneficial than using an IDE. There are a few situations where using a compiler is appropriate. If a pc is using a monitor, video card, driver, or display mode that prohibits quality colors an IDE may not be an option due to its GUI interface. Also, if a pc is in command prompt and can not load the GUI for the operating system there are still simple text editors and compilers that can be used. However, outside of these circumstances an IDE does offer more to the programmer. Compiling more than one file with a compiler can be tricky and even require the programmer to code other files to work properly. An IDE gives the programmer an option to compile one file in the project or the entire project at one time.

In the end, both processes technically use the same process to compile the source. The pros and cons of each are as much a personal preference as they are circumstantial. Actually text editors that do not contain a compiler can still be thought of as an IDE. Just because they do not compile the code does not mean that they do not integrate several development tools into a single environment. Being a GUI an IDE takes up more RAM, disk space, CPU, and requires more video power than a console-based compiler. If these elements are of concern then a compiler is a better option even if an IDE is available. An IDE is better for large projects because of its all-in-one approach to programming. A compiler is better for advanced users who do not need an IDE to write source code and compile it or for situations where loading an IDE is not an option. Using the right type of technique for the right project is an important part of making the programming process as painless as possible.

Compiler Versus Integrated Development Environment Interfaces

By: Aaron Haun

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