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CodeWarrior is probably best known for Mac programming. When I learned there is a version for the PC (even though it is for Windows '95, which I do not personally like), I decided to check it out. |
| Metrowerks has put together a modular IDE(integrated development
environment), which allows you to utilize multiple languages and multiple
platforms in one programming environment. You can develop for Windows 95/NT,
Power Macintosh, Macintosh, and BeOS. Using plug-in compilers and linkers,
you can develop for WINTEL(Windows Intel), Mac OS, MIPS(a RISC-reduced
instruction set cpu, currently found in Silicon Graphics Workstations),
Motorola 680x0, and the PowerPC.
The package for Windows 95/NT contains materials for that platform. If you want Mac or one of the other platforms, you need to buy that package. They all utilize the same interface and tools for ease of operation between projects. Supported languages are C, C++, Object Pascal, and Java. Contained in the package is
Online book reference (on the cd) included are
Requirements printed on the outside of the package claim 486 or higher cpu, but inside the manual it says 386.Either will work, but it also recommends a Pentium class cpu and I concur. Sixteen MB RAM (a good starting point), CD for installation, Windows 95 or NT 4.0 (recommended) and around 280 MB of hard disk space for a full installation(70 MB minimum install). Installation is typical. Place the cd in your drive, and if you are configured for auto run, the setup program will start itself, otherwise run "setup". The following screens ask which install you want, from full to minimum, and all typical support files. CodeWarrior REQUIRES Microsoft Internet Explorer to access the CodeWarrior Reference Web Site which is installed if you chose to do so during the installation. I know someone is going to try to use Netscape, so I will tell you that it does access the site, BUT, there is a difference in the information displayed. 'nuff said. You will also need Acrobat Reader as some of the documentation is in pdf (portable document format) files. The good news is Explorer and Acrobat Reader are included on the cd (version 3 for both). My package had an insert which you need to read. It says that you should NOT reboot after you install Internet Explorer, as it interferes with installation. If yours does not have the insert, follow the above. If you already have either or both Explorer and Acrobat Reader installed, you can skip this section. I thought that I had everything disabled during installation as per instructions, but on reboot, my mouse disappeared. I got a message saying to reinstall my PS/2 mouse. I don't have a PS/2 mouse. The problem I think, is I did not disable my anti-virus application prior to installation. The instructions say to disable ALL Windows programs before installation. After fixing this the install went smoothly. My fault. The thin manual is basically used only to install CodeWarrior, as the documentation is on the cd, so is available only after installation. After installation, you should follow the online tutorials. They are easy to use, and lead you through some simple programming to get a feel for the IDE. I have never seen a programming application that did not contain the seemingly obligatory "Hello World" or some variation of it. This one is no exception. Go through with it however, as it will assist in determining whether you properly installed the application. This is a complete system with everything but source code for YOUR application, and I am already working on a project. Based on a too brief review, I like this system. Since most reviews are done over a period of perhaps several months, I may do a follow up if I encounter something unusual, either good or bad. No place I checked locally had this in stock, so you probably will have to order it. Mail order catalogs carry it for an average price of approximately $335.00. CodeWarrior can be ordered, or questions concerning it can be directed to: |