Choosing between TEST and DEBUG compiler options

If you are compiling with z/OS® C/C++, Version 1.5 or earlier, you must choose the TEST compiler option.

The C/C++ compiler option DEBUG was introduced with z/OS C/C++ Version 1.5. Debug Tool supports the DEBUG compiler option in z/OS C/C++ Version 1.6 or later. The DEBUG compiler option replaces the TEST compiler option that was available with previous versions of the compiler.

If you are compiling with z/OS C/C++, Version 1.6 or later, choose the DEBUG compiler option and take advantage of the following benefits:

• For C++ programs, you can specify the HOOK(NOBLOCK) compiler option, which can improve debug performance.
• For C and C++ programs, if you specify the FORMAT(DWARF) suboption of the DEBUG compiler option, the load modules are smaller; however, you must save the .dbg file in addition to the source file. Debug Tool needs both of these files to debug your program.
• For C and C++ programs compiled with z/OS XL C/C++, Version 1.10 or later, if you specify the FORMAT(DWARF) suboption of the DEBUG compiler option, the load modules are smaller and you can create .mdbg files with captured source. Debug Tool needs only the .mdbg file to debug your program.