SN systems launches new development software tool

Sony Computer Entertainment subsidiary SN Systems has launched a new software development tool designed to significantly reduce compile times.

According to SN Systems, the SN Distributed Build System or SN-DBS is designed for developers using ProDG tools and can be used across multiple platforms. It works by distributing source code builds between co-operating PC on a local area network, harnessing spare processing power and allowing parallel compilation. Users can monitor each PC's status in real time via a GUI.

"The more PCs on your SN-DBS network, the faster the build," SN systems said in a statement.

"With six or more PCs in the network, a typical improvement sees the compile time reduced by 80 per cent."

Company director Andy Beveridge stated: "Compiling is a necessary evil in game development. What isn't so necessary is the wasted time and resources that the process takes."

"With each build increasing in time and builds required on an almost daily basis, it's clear to us that this is an area that needs an effective and reliable solution - hence SN-DBS."

The tool is already being used in trials by studios such as Pivotal Games. Pivotal's director of technology, Alex McLean, commented: "SN-DBS really is excellent - all the PlayStation 2 developers (myself included) are finding far more development time being freed up for coding rather than waiting around for compilers to finish."