[sdiy] how to learn C?

[Olivier Gillet]

I wouldn't recommend starting with C++. Most of what the C++ books are
teaching (the heavy focus on the STL and the standard C++ library, OO
and design patterns...) is close to useless on an embedded platform.
Unless you have a good idea of how the compiler is going to translate
the C++ idioms you use, there's a good chance "textbook" use of C++
will result in RAM or code size bloat on a microcontroller.

Books aren't the only way of learning C. Look for simple open source
projects written in C, on the platform you are interested in, and
study the code! Some AVR/C examples: the source code for Paul Maddox'
synths, for the AVR-X, for Todd Bailey's WTPA...

Olivier

On Sat, Jan 8, 2011 at 6:36 PM, David <dingebre at 3dphysics.net> wrote:
> On a more serious note...
>
> I think it depends on your experience to begin with. What platform PC, MAC?
> What compiler, GNU, Visual C, something else? Buying K&R and self teaching
> from that is OK, but it won't help you learn the nuances and skills of a
> compiler.
>
> You really need a couple of books, one for the complier and one for the
> language. If you are really just starting, the "dummies" series is pretty
> good. I'd supplement it with K&R or one of the other books that was
> recommended.
>
> The GNU C compiler is great and free. But, if you are wanting a GUI for your
> software, Visual C makes the wrappers much easier.
>
> I would also throw out to you that you may want to just skip "C" and start
> with "C++". I don't think you need to learn "C  before "C++" and it will
> make your programming task easier in the end.
>
> I don't know of a general programming book. You might want to look at
> freshman courses in Computer Science and see what books they require.
>
> David
>
> -- -----Original Message-----
> -- From: synth-diy-bounces at dropmix.xs4all.nl [mailto:synth-diy-
> -- bounces at dropmix.xs4all.nl] On Behalf Of dan snazelle
> -- Sent: Saturday, January 08, 2011 3:04 AM
> -- To: Synth-Diy DIY
> -- Subject: [sdiy] how to learn C?
> --
> -- can anyone recommend a good book on C
> --
> --
> -- and while you are it, can you recommend a good introductory book on
> programming in
> -- general
> --
> -- thanks
> --
> --
> --
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