Texas Instruments updates Code Composer Studio IDE

Running on both Windows and Linux operating systems, Code Composer Studio version 6 is available in a number of different license configurations, including several free options, reducing the cost of getting started on an embedded design. The IDE is compatible across TI’s broad embedded processing portfolio including microcontrollers (MCUs), ARM-based processors and digital signal processors (DSPs).

The innovative and intelligent “App Center” delivers the latest features and integrates additional TI software packages at no cost. Developers can install only the features they need at the time of development, but they also have flexibility to add other applications when needed. Examples of available software packages include TI-RTOS, MSP430Ware, C2000 controlSUITE, TivaWare, GUI Composer, C compiler for Sitara AM335x’s Programmable Real-Time Unit (PRU) and more.

A new “Simple mode” lets developers strip down the user interface to essential functionality, allowing designers to get comfortable with the development environment quickly and later enable additional functionality. Enhanced learning tools such as Optimizer Assistant and Ultra-Low Power Advisor are provided to improve performance, code size and power consumption.

In addition to the highly optimising TI developed C compiler, Code Composer Studio integrates GCC distributions for MSP430 MCUs, as well as ARM. This allows developers to easily leverage their existing GCC codebase when adopting TI platforms. It utilises the latest version of Eclipse to ensure compatibility with newest complementary products offered and make working with Code Composer Studio v6 easier. More than 1,200 third-party plug-ins support product development including static code analysis, source code control, modeling and scripting development. Developers get access to the latest features and capabilities (1000+ contributions) added to the Eclipse environment.

Speed design and troubleshooting with superior code development environment and an advanced editor with features such as code completion, code folding, local history of source changes, markers and the ability to associate tasks with source lines. Multi-processor debugging intelligently manages status and information from multiple cores (i.e. TI’s Keystone processors) without the confusion that arises when each core requires its own separate debugger. Automate common tasks with debug server scripting interface, such as code validation and profiling.

Free licenses of Code Composer Studio are available when using a development board with an integrated debug interface or when using the ultra-low cost XDS100 debug probe (priced at $79 (USD)). MSP430 users can use a free 16KB code size limited license with the TI compiler or unlimited code size with GCC. The full platinum license for all TI embedded processors is available at the price of $495 (USD). Code Composer Studio v6 is also free for Linux and Android application developers who do not require a JTAG debugger.