Description:
It's impossible to sum up the slickness of CodeWarrior in a few paragraphs, but it's fair to say that this package stays one step ahead of you as you're working on any software project. The Integrated Development Environment (IDE) itself hums along after a multi-CD install, and acts as your secretary, double-checker, project manager, and overall programming resource. The theme that we found apparent throughout our use of this huge package was its versatility. Many packages claim to offer flexibility in the numerous functions and features it can perform, but CodeWarrior backs up its claim with one of the smartest organization systems out there.This CodeWarrior package tackles every element of a new software project, from the technical aspects to the project management and product release. Grouping together an editor, compiler, linker, and debugger--all through a common GUI, not as separate "bundled" features--offers complete integration of all components of your project. You'll find the interface familiar, although if you're new to the Metrowerks family you may have an initial phase consisting of just getting the hang of some of their terminology. But have little fear: you can easily polish off your understanding of how to get the most out of CodeWarrior through the free online courses offered at Metrowerks' Web site. CodeWarrior's versatility shines through in the choices available to you: you can pick your platform, your programming language, and your target processor, all from one place. So if you're a fan of C, C++, or Java, and like to use Windows 95/NT, Mac OS, or Solaris, you can get numerous combinations out of the one application. Bringing it all together--working hard as the director of your musical software production, and never acting as the restrictive, bossy stage mother--is the project window. It's a comfortable place, with a strong resemblance to common file management systems like Windows Explorer. Add and remove files, organize them into groups, reorganize them: the project window keeps all of the relationships straight. And if your project is large, you can break it into subprojects for ease of use. And maybe for you it's the little things: we particularly liked some of the customizable options that really made the workspace more efficient and homey. You'll also find that cool tools are at your fingertips, like the dead code stripper and a symbolic browser new to this edition. Because this CodeWarrior package isn't language-specific, advanced users or those loyal to one language may find a few (but not many) areas that are slim on features. But if you're looking for an all-in-one package or are only interested in learning one IDE for all your programming needs, this is the way to go. And in light of the fact that Metrowerks is working hard on improving the product through numerous updates and recently released support for the QNX and Linux platforms, CodeWarrior is increasing in versatility as time goes by, rather than becoming archaic. --Emilie Dirks
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