alternate to gcc

[estex198]

First of all, allow me to blatantly point out that I am a Linux / programming novice, and I sincerely want to thank you for your time spent reading my questions.

1. Is there a good alternative to GCC for compiling c++ code in Linux? Is using an alternative recommended? I'm currently using Crunchbang Statler, a Debian derivative, along with Geany 0.19.1 (which uses my current installation of GCC 4.4.5 I believe.) I am open to other free open source platforms and IDEs, however. My only computer is an emachines netbook (e250 series with an intel atom processor.)

2. What packages do you recommend I install on my Debian system for C++ coding in an academic setting? (I'm studying electronics at a local CC)

Disclaimer:
I'm having problems compiling C++ code in Linux. I'm not asking questions about my coding ability. Please allow me to do some further testing / debugging before I bring this topic to the table. I am more than aware that compile errors are probably due to my lack of expertise, but then again my class is taught using MS Visual Studio and Microsoft Windows, not Linux and GCC. Like I said earlier, I might not even have my system set up to do much programming. I know Crunchbang is pretty minimalistic upon installation. Nonetheless I'll try the same code on a Windows PC at school tomorrow, and may end up starting a new thread.

Thanks in advance!

[Athar]

1. Is there a good alternative to GCC for compiling c++ code in Linux? Is using an alternative recommended?

No.

I'm having problems compiling C++ code in Linux. I'm not asking questions about my coding ability. Please allow me to do some further testing / debugging before I bring this topic to the table. I am more than aware that compile errors are probably due to my lack of expertise

Yes, although there's no "probably" here. You should post the exact problems you're having.

Other compilers available are e.g. ICC (from Intel) and clang, but neither will solve your problems.

2. What packages do you recommend I install on my Debian system for C++ coding in an academic setting? (I'm studying electronics at a local CC)

The Code::Blocks nightly and g++.
http://apt.jenslody.de/

[kooth]

What I do here at work is on my Windoze box I have installed cygwin (http://www.cygwin.com.) Then I can compile the same code both on Linux boxes and my PC.

[1yR4jE8b]

Clang has substantially better error messages then gcc, using it may give you better hints as to what is wrong with your code.

[rapidcoder]

C++ compilers have sometimes bugs, and reject valid C++ code, or accept invalid code. So checking with another compiler might be a good idea. However, if you are beginner, that is probably not a compiler's fault.