C Programming Compiler for Windows Vista

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers around finding a suitable C compiler for Windows Vista, as the Borland C++ 5.5 compiler used at university is incompatible. Recommendations include Microsoft Visual Studio C++ Express Edition, which is free and features a robust IDE and debugger. Alternatives mentioned are Cygwin with g++/gcc, and MinGW, which provides a Unix-like experience on Windows without the compatibility layer. Dev-C++ is also suggested as a reliable option for compiling, paired with Notepad++ for coding. The conversation highlights the outdated nature of the Borland compiler and notes that the full version of Visual Studio is available to students with a valid .edu email. Additionally, there are inquiries about programming resources in Linux or BSD, with Kdevelop being recommended for those environments.
lukesowersby
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Hi,

At university we are using the Borland C++ 5.5 compiler, however, this does not work on Vista, which my home computer has.

I was therefore wondering what C program compiler everyone would recommend which works on Windows Vista?

Thanks,

Luke.
 
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Thanks for the reply. Downloading now...
 
You could also download Cygwin and use g++/gcc. Pair that with XEmacs or Notepad++ and you're in business.

http://www.cygwin.com/
 
Just for the archives.
If you want a Unix experience c compiler on Windows you should also look at http://www.mingw.org/ it's the same GCC+Gnu tools but calling the windows libs directly rather than through the cygwin->unix compatibility libs.
 
I use the C++ express for all of my projects. Very trustworthy compiler.

Matt
 
I've always used Dev-C++ to compile, and Notepad++ for the actual writing of code.
 
lukesowersby said:
At university we are using the Borland C++ 5.5 compiler,

Your university is using a nine-year-old compiler?! :bugeye:
 
jtbell said:
Your university is using a nine-year-old compiler?! :bugeye:
Until the free edition of VS came out it was about the only free IDE on windows.
C (rather than c++) hasn't changed much in 9 years and at the time Borland was a lot better than Microsoft (MSV6 argh) for standards compliance.
 
  • #10
The full version of VS is available for all students. All you need is a valid .edu email.
 
  • #11
DaleSwanson said:
I've always used Dev-C++ to compile, and Notepad++ for the actual writing of code.

That's a nice strategy.

What about programming resources in Linux or BSD?, there is Vim, Emacs or the KDE & GNOME IDEs but I'm not sure about them. Any suggestions please?
 
  • #12
It's been a couple years since I used Linux, but when I did I was happy with Kdevelop.
 
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