Chapter 11 - Optimizing DSP Software – Code Optimization

Abstract

Code optimization is a critical step in the development process as it directly impacts the ability of the system to do its intended job. Code that executes faster means more channels, more work performed, and competitive advantage. This chapter is intended to help programmers write the most efficient code possible. It starts with an introduction to using the tool chain, covers the importance of knowing the Digital Signal Processor (DSP) architecture before optimization, and then moves on to cover wide range of optimization techniques. Techniques are presented which are valid on all programmable DSP architectures – C-language optimization techniques and general loop transformations. Real-world examples are presented throughout. To illustrate the concepts, DSPs from several vendors are discussed.