c to mips assembly converter

To convert a C program to MIPS assembly language, you need to follow a series of steps. Here is a step-by-step guide:

  1. Identify the function's entry point: In C, the entry point of a function is typically denoted by the function name. The function name is usually followed by the parameter list enclosed in parentheses. For example, if you have a function named "add" that takes two integer parameters, the entry point would be "add(int a, int b)".

  2. Allocate space for local variables: In MIPS assembly language, space for local variables is typically allocated on the stack. You can use the "addiu" instruction to adjust the stack pointer and allocate space for local variables.

  3. Save any necessary registers: Before modifying any registers, you should save the values of any necessary registers onto the stack. This is typically done using the "sw" instruction.

  4. Perform the necessary calculations and operations: Convert the C code inside the function into MIPS assembly instructions. This includes arithmetic operations, loops, conditionals, and any other necessary calculations.

  5. Load and store data: Use the appropriate MIPS assembly instructions to load and store data from memory.

  6. Return the result: If the function has a return value, use the "move" instruction to move the result into the appropriate register. Then, use the "jr" instruction to return from the function.

  7. Clean up: Before exiting the function, you should clean up any stack space used for local variables. This is typically done by adjusting the stack pointer using the "addiu" instruction.

  8. Restore any saved registers: After cleaning up, you should restore the values of any saved registers from step 3 using the "lw" instruction.

  9. Exit the function: Finally, use the "jr" instruction to exit the function and return to the calling code.

These steps outline the general process of converting a C program to MIPS assembly language. However, it's important to note that the specifics of the conversion may vary depending on the specific C code and the MIPS architecture being used. It's also worth mentioning that optimizing the MIPS assembly code is a separate and more advanced topic.