Assembler Operation Page 1 of 2

Assembler Operation
The MPASM assembler can be used in two ways:

 To generate absolute code that can be executed directly by a microcontroller.

 To generate relocatable code that can be linked with other separately assembled or compiled modules.

Generating Absolute Code

Absolute code is the default output from the MPASM assembler. This process is shown below.

When a source file is assembled in this manner, all variables and routines used in the source file must be
defined within that source file, or in files that have been explicitly included by that source file. If assembly
proceeds without errors, a hex file will be generated, containing the executable machine code for the target
device. This file can then be used with a debugger to test code execution or with a device programmer to
program the microcontroller.

Generating Relocatable Code

The MPASM assembler also has the ability to generate a relocatable object module that can be linked with
other modules using Microchip's MPLINK linker to form the final executable code. This method is very useful for
creating reusable modules.

Related modules can be grouped and stored together in a library using Microchip's MPLIB librarian. Required
libraries can be specified at link time, and only the routines that are needed will be included in the final
executable.

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Assembler Operation Page 2 of 2

Refer to Relocatable Objects for more information on the differences between absolute and relocatable object
assembly.

Microchip Technology Inc.

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Fax: (480) 792-7277
Microchip Technical Support

Help Updated: 12/10/08 16:11:10

Help Page: 24

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