Discuss here different C compiler set ups, and compiling executables for the ESP8266

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By cal
#17618 Hello esp8266 fans,

I wonder how a debugging session using e.g. gdb looks like on an embedded device.
Lets ignore for a moment that existing debugger support on the esp 8266 is limited.
I know how to debug normal programs on an operating system. I send them signals, connect a debugger or
start them from a debugger.
Cross compiling adds another layer but thats no stopper.

What does a debug session look like on an embedded device?
How do you start debugging?
How do you get control?
When/where do you get control to plant breakpoints?
How bad are software breakpoints if code is in flash?
The esp 8266 has limited hardware breakpoint/watchpoint support (1/1). How does that influence
debug habits?

I would very much like to learn more how this is typically done!

Thanks,
Cal