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CMake the Most of Software Development - Modern Build Systems Support Scalability
Circuit Cellar|February 2025
Discover how modernizing your build system with CMake can revolutionize embedded software development, offering unparalleled flexibility and efficiency. Dive into this article to explore the transformative benefits of CMake's cross-platform capabilities and how it integrates seamlessly with contemporary development practices.
- Jacob Beningo
CMake the Most of Software Development - Modern Build Systems Support Scalability

Many embedded software developers today cannot take advantage of modern development techniques like DevOps, Test-Driven Development, and simulation because they write software using their microcontroller vendor's IDE. While these integrated environments are convenient for getting a project started quickly, they don't lend themselves well to building multiple configurations; they often build slowly and can create productivity headaches.

Embedded software development doesn't need to be that way. There's a better way that will allow you to leverage modern development techniques and practices while still having the benefits of an integrated IDE: create your own modern CMake build system. I know this sounds time-consuming and difficult, but I will show you how easy it can be.

Those who want to jump straight to the solution can download a completed version at a link in the article resources. [1]

WHAT'S A BUILD SYSTEM?

A build system is a set of tools and processes used to automate converting source code into executable programs. It includes:

  • Cross-compilation

  • Configuration management

  • Automation

  • Integration with development tools

  • Resource handling

A typical build system will look like Figure 1.

The application comprises drivers, an operating system, some middleware, and the application itself. These are cross-compiled using Make [2] with the target compiler, possibly GCC, and then linked into a final binary that runs on the target microcontroller. There is typically just a single build configuration, which forces you to run the code directly on the target and only on the target.

The problem with the traditional build system is that it doesn't scale well or provide a developer with the right tools to build a modern system. You need a build system that supports a modern workflow to succeed today.

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