Function Library Smoothes Path For Matlab-To-C Synthesis

Dec. 13, 2007

For many design teams, the MathWorksâ?? Matlab language has become the standard for signal-processing algorithm development. Likewise, C is the preferred vehicle for handing off those algorithms to downstream developers. But while Matlab func

David Maliniak

For many design teams, the MathWorks’ Matlab language has become the standard for signal-processing algorithm development. Likewise, C is the preferred vehicle for handing off those algorithms to downstream developers.

But while Matlab functions are critical for algorithm development, those functions, which are expressed in M-code, have no equivalent Csource code for handoff. Translation of the functions from M-code to C is a time-consuming, manual job. And, the C version may not work as well as the M-code did.

Launched last December, Catalytic’s MCS tool automatically generates ANSI C code from M-code. This lets developers automatically create reference models on demand and continue designing in Matlab. The next step in MCS’s evolution is a function library to accompany the tool.

The Catalytic Function Library enables Matlab developers to generate functionally equivalent, redistributable C code for more than 300 Matlab functions, including a wide variety of toolbox functions. Algorithm developers now can generate equivalent C models from Matlab code that take advantage of higher-level Matlab functions without resorting to tedious manual effort.

Pricing for the library is subscription-based. It’s priced from $5000 per year and includes all quarterly updates during the term. Catalytic Inc. • www.catalytic.com

About the Author

David Maliniak | MWRF Executive Editor

In his long career in the B2B electronics-industry media, David Maliniak has held editorial roles as both generalist and specialist. As Components Editor and, later, as Editor in Chief of EE Product News, David gained breadth of experience in covering the industry at large. In serving as EDA/Test and Measurement Technology Editor at Electronic Design, he developed deep insight into those complex areas of technology. Most recently, David worked in technical marketing communications at Teledyne LeCroy. David earned a B.A. in journalism at New York University.