How Does Compiling Work?

[masoug]

I have been programming the cRIO for two years, and I still haven't been able to grasp how the compiler makes the .out file and how the cRIO links the program on runtime.

I am currently confused about the whole linking process: why do we need WPILib.a when the FRC_UserProgram.out file links on runtime? And what does FRC_UserProgram.out link to when loaded? Why would I get errors about undefined symbols (for WPILib) on runtime?

I greatly appreciate any help!

Thanks!