gnatmake Command Examples

gnatmake is a build tool designed for Ada programming language and is an integral part of the GNAT toolchain. GNAT is the GNU Ada Compiler, developed by the Free Software Foundation (FSF). The primary purpose of gnatmake is to simplify the compilation and linking process for Ada programs, handling the dependencies and building executable binaries from Ada source code.

Here are some key points about gnatmake:

• Build Tool for Ada Programs: gnatmake acts as a build automation tool specifically tailored for Ada. It automates the process of compiling Ada source files, managing dependencies, and linking the resulting object files to create executable programs.
• Part of GNAT Toolchain: The GNAT toolchain is a set of tools and utilities provided by the GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) for Ada development. gnatmake works alongside other tools in the GNAT toolchain to facilitate the compilation and building of Ada applications.
• Dependency Handling: One of the significant features of gnatmake is its ability to handle dependencies among Ada source files. It automatically determines the order in which Ada units need to be compiled and linked, simplifying the build process.
• Integration with GCC: Since GNAT is part of the GCC, gnatmake leverages the capabilities of the GNU Compiler Collection. This integration allows Ada developers to benefit from the GCC infrastructure and take advantage of features provided by the broader GNU ecosystem.

gnatmake Command Examples

1. Compile an executable:

# gnatmake source_file1.adb source_file2.adb ...

2. Set a custom executable name:

# gnatmake -o executable_name source_file.adb

3. [f]orce recompilation:

# gnatmake -f source_file.adb

Summary

In summary, gnatmake is a valuable tool for Ada developers, streamlining the build process and managing the compilation and linking of Ada source code into executable programs. It plays a crucial role in the GNAT toolchain, contributing to the overall efficiency and productivity of Ada software development.