.. _chapter-pw-env_setup:

------------
pw_env_setup
------------
A classic problem in the embedded space is reducing the time from git clone
to having a binary executing on a device. The issue is that an entire suite
of tools is needed for non-trivial production embedded projects. For example:

 - A C++ compiler for your target device, and also for your host
 - A build system or three; for example, GN, Ninja, CMake, Bazel
 - A code formatting program like clang-format
 - A debugger like OpenOCD to flash and debug your embedded device
 - A known Python version with known modules installed for scripting
 - A Go compiler for the Go-based command line tools

...and so on

In the server space, container solutions like Docker or Podman solve this;
however, in our experience container solutions are a mixed bag for embedded
systems development where one frequently needs access to native system
resources like USB devices, or must operate on Windows.

pw_env_setup is our compromise solution for this problem that works on Mac,
Windows, and Linux. It leverages the Chrome packaging system `CIPD`_ to
bootstrap a Python installation, which in turn inflates a virtual
environment. The tooling is installed into your workspace, and makes no
changes to your system. This tooling is designed to be reused by any
project.

.. _CIPD: https://github.com/luci/luci-go/tree/master/cipd

.. warning::
  At this time pw_env_setup works for us, but isn’t well tested. We don’t
  suggest relying on it just yet. However, we are interested in experience
  reports; if you give it a try, please `send us a note`_ about your
  experience.

.. _send us a note: pigweed@googlegroups.com