Make MPLAB® X IDE Run Faster: Memory Usage

Memory Usage

If large projects and configurations are used, the memory utilized by the IDE can fill up the maximum space allocated for the heap. To monitor memory usage, the memory toolbar can be used as shown here. Right-click on any toolbar area and Memory is shown in the extended menu. By checking it (which turns it on), the amount of memory used over the total memory available is shown as a bar. The default memory size is 512 MB. If the numbers on the left-hand side get closer to the number on the right, it indicates that the IDE is slowing down.

memory_tool_bar.jpg

RAM & Flash Usage

During debug, real-time RAM and Flash usage can be displayed in the Dashboard Window. To launch the Dashboard Window, select Window > Dashboard from the main menu.

dashboard.jpg

In the Dashboard Window, under Memory, two types of memory are shown, RAM (data and Flash (Program). The amount of memory used by the project as well as memory reserved for debugging are shown in the percentage bar.

Memory used should be a guide to the amount of memory remaining. The compiler outputs a Memory Summary that details usage for Program Space, Configuration Bits, ID location, and EEPROM (if available on the device). The sum of these memory spaces, allowing for word sizes, should agree with the Dashboard's indication of Flash used. The map file should be examined when memory is at a premium.

memory_usage_ram_flash.jpg

  Return to Top

© 2024 Microchip Technology, Inc.
Notice: ARM and Cortex are the registered trademarks of ARM Limited in the EU and other countries.
Information contained on this site regarding device applications and the like is provided only for your convenience and may be superseded by updates. It is your responsibility to ensure that your application meets with your specifications. MICROCHIP MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WRITTEN OR ORAL, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE, RELATED TO THE INFORMATION, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ITS CONDITION, QUALITY, PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR PURPOSE. Microchip disclaims all liability arising from this information and its use. Use of Microchip devices in life support and/or safety applications is entirely at the buyer's risk, and the buyer agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Microchip from any and all damages, claims, suits, or expenses resulting from such use. No licenses are conveyed, implicitly or otherwise, under any Microchip intellectual property rights.