Perl Cross-Compiler for Microcontrollers
Keywords:
Perl, Microcontrollers, Cross-compilers, Interpreters, Embedded systemsAbstract
Microcontrollers (μC) are single-chip integrated circuits that contain one or more CPUs along with memory and programmable input/output peripherals. They are used for embedded applications such as industrial control systems and home appliances. These systems often consist of interconnected circuit boards that collect sensor data, process information, communicate, monitor, and control hardware equipment like motors, pumps, power generators, wind turbines, and automotive engines. Billions of these chips are manufactured and sold by various semiconductor companies each year, along with packaged software to enable customers to program the devices to suit their systems. C cross-compilers are widely used to generate assembly (ASM) code for specific μC devices. Implementing Perl interpreters and cross-compilers that support a subset of the Perl syntax could facilitate programming, monitoring, and debugging microcontrollers. This Perl cross-compiler would operate in a laptop or desktop Perl environment, generating a binary image that can be downloaded onto the microcontroller circuit board. This ecosystem would benefit both Perl developers and end-users reliant on microcontroller-based hardware systems, as it would enable the reuse of Perl libraries currently limited to traditional CPUs. Programming Internet of Things (IoT) hardware via Perl could create job opportunities for college graduates familiar with Perl and enhance career prospects for experienced Perl developers in niche embedded systems roles requiring domain-specific knowledge and experience. We propose the creation of a microcontroller Perl cross-compiler framework.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Manickam Thanneermalai (Author)

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