A cross-platform support middleware (CPSM) is a software
abstraction layer
In computing, an abstraction layer or abstraction level is a way of hiding the working details of a subsystem. Examples of software models that use layers of abstraction include the OSI model for network protocols, OpenGL, and other graphics libra ...
that guarantees the existence, and correct implementation, of a set of services on top a set of
platforms.
Abstraction method
The abstraction method in the CPSM development is the method used to compile the concrete source code for a given platform without compromising the abstract interfaces provided.
The most commonly used abstraction methods in CPSM development are:
conditional compilation and directory separation of sources.
The first method consists in embedding preprocessor instructions in the source code to conditionally select the source subtree compatible with a given platform.
The second method takes advantage of the
filesystem organization to divide the source code in different folders, one for each incompatible platform. Thus delegating the selection problem to the
build system.
Some distributions like
MSYS and
Cygwin
Cygwin ( ) is a POSIX-compatible programming and runtime environment that runs natively on Microsoft Windows. Under Cygwin, source code designed for Unix-like operating systems may be compiled with minimal modification and executed.
The Cygwin in ...
may help build the cross-platform code in a
Unix-like environment even on Microsoft Windows. Both distributions provide a decent version of
GNU Make that can direct the build process in a cross-platform fashion.
See also
*
Adaptive Communication Environment
*
Boost C++ libraries
*
GTK+
GTK (formerly GIMP ToolKit and GTK+) is a free and open-source cross-platform widget toolkit for creating graphical user interfaces (GUIs). It is licensed under the terms of the GNU Lesser General Public License, allowing both free and proprie ...
*
Netscape Portable Runtime
In computing, the Netscape Portable Runtime, or NSPR, a platform abstraction library, makes all operating systems it supports appear the same to (for example) Mozilla-style web-browsers. NSPR provides platform independence for non-GUI operating ...
*
Simple DirectMedia Layer
*
wxWidgets
References
{{reflist
Middleware