How to Use the Command 'xmake' (with Examples)

Xmake is a modern and efficient build utility designed for the C and C++ programming languages. Built on Lua, this cross-platform tool simplifies the process of building complex software projects. With its intuitive design and powerful features, Xmake provides developers with a seamless experience when managing build configurations, compiling code, and running applications. In this article, we’ll explore various use cases of the Xmake command to illustrate its capabilities.

Use Case 1: Creating an Xmake C Project

Code:

xmake create --language c -P project_name

Motivation:

When starting a new C programming project, it is crucial to quickly set up a structured environment. Xmake provides a convenient command to automate this task. By using the command above, developers can generate a boilerplate C project that includes a basic “Hello World” program and an xmake.lua configuration file. This setup not only saves time but also ensures that the project is organized and ready for further development.

Explanation:

• xmake create: This initiates the creation process for a new Xmake project.
• --language c: Specifies the programming language for the project, in this case, C.
• -P project_name: Sets the name of the project directory that will be created. This directory will contain all initial project files, including the xmake.lua configuration file.

Example Output:

Successfully created xmake project: project_name

Use Case 2: Building and Running an Xmake Project

Code:

xmake build run

Motivation:

Once a project has been set up, the next step is to compile and execute the code. Xmake simplifies this process by combining the build and run functions into a single command, enhancing efficiency and streamlining workflow. This is especially useful for continuous development cycles where quick iteration and testing are essential.

Explanation:

• xmake build: Compiles the source code of the project, producing executable binaries.
• run: Directly follows the build process by executing the compiled binary, allowing developers to immediately test their code.

Example Output:

compiling hello.c ...
linking hello ...
running ./build/macosx/x86_64/debug/hello ...
Hello, World!

Use Case 3: Running a Compiled Xmake Target Directly

Code:

xmake run target_name

Motivation:

In larger projects, it might be necessary to execute a specific compiled target without rebuilding the entire project. This command allows developers to run a precompiled target, which can save significant time during the development and debugging phases.

Explanation:

• xmake run: Instructs Xmake to execute a compiled target.
• target_name: Specifies the name of the target to be executed. This target must have been previously compiled and available within the project’s output directories.

Example Output:

running ./build/macosx/x86_64/debug/target_name ...
[Output of target_name]

Use Case 4: Configuring a Project’s Build Targets

Code:

xmake config --plat=macosx --arch=x86_64 --mode=debug

Motivation:

Developers often need to tailor the build process according to different deployment environments or hardware architectures. By configuring the project build targets, Xmake allows for flexibility and versatility in the build process, enabling developers to produce binaries optimized for specific platforms and architectures.

Explanation:

• xmake config: Opens the configuration interface for defining build variables.
• --plat=macosx: Sets the target platform for the build, such as macOS in this instance.
• --arch=x86_64: Specifies the architecture, ensuring that the binary is compatible with the desired hardware.
• --mode=debug: Configures the build mode, allowing for debug information to be included in the binaries for testing purposes.

Example Output:

configure
{
    plat = macosx
    arch = x86_64
    mode = debug
}

Use Case 5: Installing the Compiled Target to a Directory

Code:

xmake install -o path/to/directory

Motivation:

After successfully building and testing a project, developers often need to install the compiled binaries for deployment or distribution. This command allows for the seamless installation of the target to a specified directory, which can be useful for packaging or local deployment.

Explanation:

• xmake install: Triggers the installation process for the compiled target.
• -o path/to/directory: Defines the output directory where the target will be installed, ensuring organized storage and easy access for future use.

Example Output:

installing hello to /path/to/directory ...

Conclusion:

Xmake stands out as a robust and versatile tool for managing C and C++ projects across various platforms. Its comprehensive command-line interface offers developers a streamlined workflow from project creation to configuration, building, running, and installation. By utilizing these use cases, developers can efficiently leverage Xmake to enhance their development processes, regardless of the project’s complexity or target environment.