Choosing a Compiler Mode

AutoLISP Developer's Guide > Using the Visual LISP Environment > Building Applications > Compiling and Linking Programs > Compiling a Program from a File >

The mode parameter indicates the compilation mode, which can be one of the following:

st: Standard build mode
lsm: Optimize and link indirectly
lsa: Optimize and link directly

The standard mode produces the smallest output file and is suitable for programs consisting of a single file.

The optimization options result in more efficient compiled files, which becomes important as your programs grow in size and complexity. The basic functions of optimization are as follows:

Link function calls to create direct references to the compiled function in the compiled code, instead of to the function symbol. This feature improves the performance of the compiled code and protects the code against function redefinition at runtime.
Drop function names to make the compiled code more secure and to decrease program size and load time.
Drop the names of all local variables and directly link their references. This also makes the compiled code more secure and decreases program size and load time.

The VLISP project management feature allows you to tailor the optimization options to the specific needs of your application. See to learn more about choosing optimization options.