Introduction to Cross Compilation

Cross compilation enables building software for a different platform than the one it's compiled on. Ideal for creating applications for embedded systems or platforms with limited build resources.

The 'host' is the system where the compilation occurs, while the 'target' is the system where the compiled code will run. Cross-compilers are designed to generate executable code for the target from the host environment.

A cross-compiler is tailored for a specific target platform. It includes a compiler, assembler, and linker capable of producing executables for the target from host-developed source code.

Toolchains bundle together compilers, libraries, and debuggers. For cross-compilation, these are specialized to support the architecture and system nuances of different target platforms, like ARM or MIPS.

Cross compiling projects with complex dependencies requires meticulous configuration. Dependencies may need to be cross-compiled first, ensuring compatibility with the target environment.

Testing cross-compiled binaries is challenging. It often involves emulators or the actual target hardware to verify the software runs correctly on the intended platform.

Famous projects like the GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) support cross-compilation, enabling developers to create software for virtually any platform from a single host system.