Setting up to compile C++ on Linux/Unix
How you set up to compile C++ programs depends on whether you are using Windows
or Linux/Unix. This page describes the approach to use if you have a Linux/Unix
machine. If you have a Windows machine, read
this page
instead.
To establish that your Linux/Unix system has the correct C++ compiler
installed, at the command prompt type this:
g++ -v
If your system is set up correctly, this command will launch the compiler
executable and print its version. If an error message is printed instead, you
will have to consult your documentation to make sure the compiler is installed
and set up correctly.
When I compile on Linux and other versions of Unix, I use an executable shell
file named gccp with this content:
#/bin/sh
echo compiling C++ using -ansi -pedantic-errors -Wall
g++ -ansi -pedantic-errors -Wall $1 $2 $3
If you want this shell file, simply copy it from this page and save it on your
system in a file named gccp. Be sure to (1) make the file executable, and (2)
place it in an accessible directory. Because I cannot know which version of
Unix you are running, I can't really be more specific.
This shell file sets up the most strict ANSI standard compliance level, making
it necessary for the programmer to pay attention to many compatibility and
style issues. There may even be some incompatibilities within the C++
compiler's own library routines, so this shell file may not always result in a
successful compile even if your program is flawless. But in general, it is a
good idea to establish high standards as a student, to become accustomed to good
programming style.
If you execute the compiler directly, without using the shell file, its
behavior is more relaxed. This may sometimes be necessary. Do it like this:
g++ temp.cpp
Now set up a convenient data directory in which to place your programs. Create
a file named temp.cpp with this content:
#include <iostream>
using namespace std;
int main()
{
cout << "Hello World!" << endl;
return 0;
}
Again, you should be able to copy this little program from this page, and use a
text editor to save it as “temp.cpp.”
Move to the directory in which temp.cpp is located, and type this:
gccp temp.cpp
If you have not made any errors, the program will compile uneventfully, and a
program file named “a.out” will be created in the same directory.
To execute your program, type “./a.out” (your system may require
slightly different syntax) and press Enter. The program should run, and print
“Hello world!” on the display.
This series of actions confirms that you have acquired a C++ compiler and it is
working properly.
Linux and other versions of Unix usually have many worthwhile programming
editors available, many of which can be customized to suit your requirements.
But, again, because I cannot know which Unix you are running, I can't be
specific. Be sure to look into the many editors that are available — they
save a great deal of effort in programming.
And learn how to create a variety of executable shell files — they save a
great deal of time on Unix systems.
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