Intel Launches New Compilers for Linux

Intel just let us know about version 5.0 of the Intel C++ Compiler for Linux and the Intel Fortran Compiler for Linux. Intel says the compilers are designed to help developers make use of all the bells and whistles in the Intel Itanium and Pentium 4 processors. For the uninitiated, compilers take source code written by programmers and turn it into machine code understood by a processor. The new C++ and Fortran Linux compilers include interprocedural optimization, auto-vectorization, and profile-guided optimization - terms that make me feel a tad uninitiated. The new compilers also let developers use high-level OpenMP directives to build apps for multiprocessor computers. Intel is also throwing in a Linux-based debugger with the compilers and is working with Caldera International on enhancements to gdb to support improved Fortran debugging and support for the new C++ application binary interface. The compilers will be on the street in September and list for $399 through the Intel Web site or $499 for a CDROM kit ($100 to burn `em and mail `em?).