Cross compiler for desktop platforms

[ivankravets]

This isn't a secret that PlatformIO initially was intended to be cross compiling tool for multiple development platforms, not just embedded.

According to the latest issues #258 and #262 I understand that this feature for desktop platforms could be interested for the developers.

native development platform

Create new native development platform which will use host OS's gcc compiler. If it doesn't exist (like on Windows), PlatformIO will install own pre-built package with gcc for Windows. For Mac OS X, Linux - need to show "HELP NOTICE" how gcc can be installed using OS's packages manager (brew, apt, yum, etc.)

Desktop cross-compiling

Create new desktop based platforms:

• windows_x86
• windows_amd64
• linux_i686
• linux_x86_64
• darwin_i386
• darwin_x86_64
• linux_arm

These platforms could be used for cross compiling between desktop platforms. For example, host is Mac OS, then this platformio.ini should prepare binaries (executable files) for targets:

[env:win32]
platform = windows_x86

[env:mac64]
platform = darwin_x86_64

[env:lin32]
platform = linux_i686

What do you think about it?

[WillemMali]

I've been thinking about it myself, seems like a great idea. +1!

[ivankravets]

@WillemMali which is your host OS?

[WillemMali]

I'm on Windows (8.1 x64, for entertainment) and Linux (Debian stable x64, for work). I also regularly work with Raspberry Pi's.

[ivankravets]

@WillemMali you can try the latest build. It has support for cross-compiling to windows x86 from Mac OS X, Linux 32/64