"Embedded C" programming is the most popular approach to programming embedded systems. It achieves that fine balance between speed of development and flexibility.
At Absolute Software, we always code in C by choice. Although, where required we are equally happy coding in assembler. We also have experience with C++, Java, Pascal and Forth.
Embedded C is an ideal choice for PIC programming. This is because it has the cost effectiveness of a high level language, with the power and efficiency of assembler. Our choice of embedded C compiler for PIC processors would always be the Hi-Tech PICC compiler. This choice is based on our experience with a number of compilers. We have found the Hi-Tech compiler to be reliable, bug-free and their tech support to be extremely helpful.
For the same reasons we would recommend the Keil compiler for 8051 programming. Keil also provide an excellent RTOS to complement their embedded C compiler.
As proof of our embedded c skills at Absolute Software we have Microchip Consultancy certification and Hi-Tech consultancy status. These endorsements are rigourously validated on a continuing basis by Microchip and Hi-Tech, and ensure as a client that you will get the highest level of embedded programming.
We know and love embedded C so much that we have even written our own embedded C compiler that runs on an 8-bit Rabbit processor. Although its not a full ANSI C compliant compiler, the process of implementing this compiler was a great learning exercise, giving us enormous insight into structure of recursive descent languages.
We find for most projects, embedded C is the only choice. Most of the projects we work on are 8-bit processor based. C++ is not an option (the overhead is too high), assembler can be an option, but commercial is not usually viable. BASIC can work, but it can be hard work for complex algorithms.
So, in conclusion, we would always recommend the embedded C route.
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