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Introduction to Handheld Programming Options
by Guy W. Lecky-Thompson
Developing on Handheld Platforms
When considering development on any handheld platform, there are essentially two possible routes that can
be taken:
- the first is to develop applications on another machine, using a Software Development Kit (SDK) and transfer the compiled application to the handheld;
- alternatively, applications can be developed on the handheld itself, and are either compiled or interpreted.
The exact choice of path to take will depend on the project to a large extent, as well as the capabilities of
the project team. Of course, the client is also always free to choose the method, especially if there are
constraints, contractual or otherwise, that exclude one of the various options.
Using Software Development Kits (SDKs)
For experienced developers, there are usually freely available SDKs, the most popular being the GCC suite,
in addition to commercial cross-compilers such as Metrowerks CodeWarrior. Usually the SDK consists of
a bytecode compiler capable of generating code which can be executed directly by the device, plus various
tools and utilities and an emulator.
Developing on the Handheld
If writing a small application or prototyping a large one is called for, then developing on the handheld itself
can also be achieved. Most popular is the PocketC compiler which is available for multiple platforms, for a
reasonable price. The run-time library does need to be distributed with your software however. Similar to
PocketC is the Quartus Forth package which is an implementation of the Forth language.
Many tutorials and books exist which detail the exact techniques used when programming the various
handhelds, with most effort being directed towards the WinCE and Palm Pilot markets. It is important to
realize that the general paradigm for writing software on these machines is not vastly different from any
other platform, and most programmers will be able to develop for these platforms easily and efficiently.
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