9. Link Time Optimization - LTO

In the world of embedded systems, getting the maximum performance out of an application can be challenging, particularly when the available system memory is limited. A robust and effective C/C++ optimizing compiler can be an invaluable resource in helping achieve higher-level performance for embedded applications that must run within a limited memory space, especially if that compiler is able to perform inter-module optimizations on whole-programs.

The c29clang compiler tools, starting with version 2.0.0.STS, enable inter-module optimization over a whole-program at link-time. This feature is commonly referred to as Link-Time Optimization or LTO.

Contents

• 9.1. Benefits of Using LTO - Enabling Inter-Module Optimizations
  • 9.1.1. A Simple Example
  • 9.1.2. Code Size Reduction Due to Use of LTO
  • 9.1.3. Performance Improvement Due to Use of LTO
• 9.2. LTO Development Flow
  • 9.2.1. How LTO Works
  • 9.2.2. LTO Development Flow Overview
• 9.3. Building an Application with LTO
  • 9.3.1. Building an LTO-Enabled Application from the Command-Line Interface (CLI)
  • 9.3.2. Building an LTO-Enabled Application in a Code Composer Studio (CCS) Project
• 9.4. LTO Debug Aid
  • 9.4.1. Debuggability of Applications Linked with LTO
  • 9.4.2. Generating Pre-/Post-LTO Symbol Reference Information
  • 9.4.3. Example