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Getting started with the xPack Project

Mission statement​

Our Mission

Enable developers to efficiently manage dependencies and multi-configuration builds, in a reproducible way.

Based on a straightforward multi-version dependencies manager built on top of npm, the xPack Project aims to provide a suite of cross-platform tools. These tools are designed to manage, configure, build and test complex, modular, multi-target projects (encompassing multiple architecture, boards and toolchains), in a reproducible way, with a particular focus on C/C++ and bare-metal embedded projects.

Features​

By design, the xPack Framework aims to automate:

  • managing dependencies
  • managing build configurations
  • the component configurations process
  • the build process
tip

The management of dependencies & build configurations is handled by xpm and the configuration & build processes are covered by xcdl.

Benefits​

  1. Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity: By providing a suite of cross-platform tools, the project streamlines the management, configuration, building, and testing processes, saving time and reducing the complexity involved in handling multi-target projects.
  2. Reproducibility: Ensuring that builds and tests can be executed repeatedly with identical results across different platforms and over time enhances the reliability and stability of the development process.
  3. Modularity and Flexibility: The focus on complex, modular projects allows for better organization and scalability. Developers can work on individual components without affecting the entire system, facilitating easier maintenance and updates.
  4. Cross-Platform Compatibility: Tools designed to work across various architectures, boards, and toolchains ensure that the project can be adapted to different environments, making it versatile and adaptable to various development needs.
  5. Specialization in C/C++ and Bare-Metal Embedded Projects: By targeting specific areas like C/C++ and bare-metal embedded projects, the tools can offer specialized features and optimizations that cater to the unique requirements of these domains.
  6. Improved Code Sharing and Reuse: The use of a multi-version dependencies manager built on top of npm promotes better code sharing and reuse, enhancing collaboration and reducing duplication of effort throughout the project lifecycle.
Benefits

These benefits collectively contribute to a more efficient, reliable, and adaptable development process, ultimately leading to higher quality software and faster time-to-market.

Install​

The xPack Project core tools can be installed automatically, using the npm command.

The xPack Binary Development Tools can be installed automatically, using the xpm command (the recommended method), or manually, by downloading and unpacking one of the platform specific archives.

Please refer to the Install Guide pages for each project.

License​

The original content is released under the MIT License, with all rights reserved to Liviu Ionescu.

MacStadium

Credits​

Special thanks to MacStadium, for providing the Apple Silicon development infrastructure as part of their generous Free and Open Source Software program.

Thanks to Shields IO for the badges.

Enjoyed using this project? Let us know!​

If you enjoyed using this project, please let us know! Here are some ways you can show your support:

  • Donate: Your contributions, whether small or generous, help us keep the xPack projects thriving. Donate
  • Star the project on GitHub: It helps others discover our work.
  • Follow us on X/Twitter: Stay updated with our latest releases and news.