XC8+Pickit2 = slow

[poorchava]

I have recently switched from MPLAB 8.something and C18, to MPLABX 1.6 and XC8 compiler. I am using genuine Pickit 2 and the target is PIC18F4553.

I have noticed that it takes MUCH longer to enter debug mode (i mean compile, link, program mcu, enter debug mode) than old MPLAB did. Have you also noticed that? Maybe there's something wrong with my hardware (it's rather old, but quite capable)? I especially see difference in compilation time.

I like XC8 much better than C18 (normal interrupt declarations! at last!), but this is somewhat annoying to wait for like 10-12 seconds for debug to start, while in old MPLAB it used to takes like 6 seconds or so.

[AlfBaz]

I believe its because mplabx creates a huge make file first and then sends that to the compiler tool chain.
I remember the mplab x guys saying they were going to address this about 18 months ago, looks like they never got around to it

[JoannaK]

XC8 sucks anyhow.. apparently only way to make it produce half decent code is to purchase 500USD 'standard' package. And with 1500USD it might even do decent code.   

Edit: couple links
http://www.microchip.com/forums/m698536.aspx
http://www.microchip.com/forums/m668751-print.aspx

[Niklas]

If you have the full version of Microchip's C18 you might get an XC8 license for free.

I have also noticed that everything seems to be a bit slower than before but I use RealICE instead of Pickit2. Still have MPLAB 8.43 and C18 3.xx for some older projects. One thing that I like with XC8 is that I no longer need separate LCD and RS232 functions for RAM and ROM strings.

[poorchava]

Yeah, some features are definitely nice:
-easy interrupt declaration
-ONE include file for all controllers (which on the other hand is the reason for slowness according to Microchip forum)
-no more 'const rom' stuff
-no more ram and rom string functions