I am trying to implement an image analysis algorithm using parallel processing techniques. As usual, the implementation is comprised of a dozen of functions each one solving a simpler problem.
Now I'm gonna create a C header file (*.h) containing all the required functions. In comparison to static library files (*.lib) and dynamic libraries (*.dll) which one is optimal in terms of speed? Or is it simply better to use a header file?
I'm aware that static library links all the required functions during the compile process and dynamic library will be linked on run-time. The most critical factor is speed. I need several days to fulfill the processing task, consequently any measure leading to shortening required time is highly welcome (even in the cost of consuming more space on hard disk and RAM).
Thank you for sharing your experience.
Dear Amir,
First, your question is not clear enough. What do you mean by "speed" here? There might be compilation time, linking time and execution time, so you should be more precise here.
In terms of compilation speed, using a header file will be the slowest option, as your code must be compiled every time you compile your main code (the code that uses your functions). If you are then going to develop a program based on this library, you should keep this in mind. Of course, if your library is not huge, the time might not be noticeable with today's fast computers. The other two options compile once, and link to your main code. This could be much faster than compilation if you use, heavily, C++ templates for example.
In terms of execution speed, there is almost no difference between static and dynamic libraries; header only libraries, however, might get optimized by the compiler a bit more, as the compiler has the final picture together. Modern compilers even try to do this for static libraries using "Link Time Optimization" option.
Just as another note, header only libraries do not have the hassle of setting linker options and can save you headaches later.
Hope this helps!
Dear Farshid and Peter,
many thanks for your answer. Now I have a deeper insight.
good luck
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