Why export templates would be useful in C++ (2010)
17 days ago
- #Templates
- #Modularity
- #C++
- Export templates in C++ allow template classes and functions to be declared in headers and implemented in a single compilation unit.
- They enable the linker to compile template instantiations for each used type, increasing modularity and locality of templated code.
- Export templates provide access to local data within their compilation unit, a feature not possible with regular non-export templates.
- Manual simulation of export templates is possible through explicit instantiation, though it requires manual effort for each type.
- Template functions and classes lack local data sharing across instantiations, a limitation export templates address.
- The C++ standard may deprecate export templates due to implementation challenges, not inherent flaws.
- Arguments against export templates often overlook their modularity benefits, focusing instead on misconceptions.