Development Toolkits

Overview

Choose one. There are many development environments available. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, some are explained below.

Just C/C++ compiler

This is the bare minimum. Use Notepad to edit your programs.

>> setup MinGW compiler >>

Recommended Development Environment

This configuration does not include a debugger, which is helpful for tracing code and visualizing what your program is doing. However, it may be easier to understand if you only use a single source file, since it does not require creating a "project".

(This option is only recommended for CS120.)

>> setup MinGW compiler >>

>> install PSPad and setup to compile >>

Alternate Development Environment

This configuration is slightly more complex but includes a debugger which will allow you to visual the execution of your program. This IDE is also quickly becoming the defacto IDE for all software development and especially for Java and other platform independent development. So, learning it now will enhance your value as a employee later.

>> setup Eclipse IDE >>

Alternate Development Environment

This configuration may be better for those already familiar with the Code::Blocks IDE. There is no need to install the compiler, this option includes a compiler in the install.

>> setup Code::Blocks IDE >>