Using pip on IBM i to install with compiles

This doc describes some changes required when compiling Python pip modules for V7R4 and above.

IBM i Prior to V7R4

gcc-6 can be used during installation of Python pip modules that need compilation.

gcc-10 needs to be used when installing Python pip modules that need compilation.

Example command line to install pip module:

CC='gcc-10 -pthread' CXX='g++-10 -pthread' python3.9 -m pip install <modulename>

Make your own directory with the gcc 10 symlinks and add it to the PATH, eg so you don't need the CC= or CXX=

mkdir mydir
ln -s /QOpenSys/pkgs/bin/gcc-10 mydir/gcc
ln -s /QOpenSys/pkgs/bin/g++-10 mydir/g++
PATH=$PWD/mydir:$PATH

Ideally use your own home directory for the shortcuts and add to path

mkdir ~/bin
ln -s /QOpenSys/pkgs/bin/gcc-10 ~/bin/gcc
ln -s /QOpenSys/pkgs/bin/g++-10 ~/bin/g++
PATH=$PWD/~/bin:$PATH