walnux/Documentation/debugging/gdbwithpython.rst

===============
GDB with Python
===============

Introduction
============

The NuttX kernel can be effectively debugged using GDB's Python extension.
Commonly used classes and utilities are implemented in the ``nuttx/tools/gdb/nuttxgdb`` directory.
Users can also create custom Python scripts tailored to their debugging needs to analyze and troubleshoot the NuttX kernel more efficiently.

Usage
=====

1. Compile NuttX with CONFIG_DEBUG_SYMBOLS=y enabled and change ``CONFIG_DEBUG_SYMBOLS_LEVEL`` to ``-g3``.
2. Use GDB to debug the NuttX ELF binary (on a real device, a simulator, or with a coredump).
3. Add the following argument to the GDB command line: ``-ix="nuttx/tools/pynuttx/gdbinit.py"``
4. GDB will automatically load the Python script, enabling the use of custom commands.

How to write a GDB python script
================================

Here is an article that introduces the fundamental principles of Python in GDB. Read it to gain a basic understanding.
`Automate Debugging with GDB Python API <https://interrupt.memfault.com/blog/automate-debugging-with-gdb-python-api>`_.

For more documentation on gdb python, please refer to the official documentation of GDB.
`GDB Python API <https://sourceware.org/gdb/current/onlinedocs/gdb.html/Python-API.html#Python-API>`_.

Requirements
============

To use GDB with Python, the following requirements must be met:

- Use GDB compiled with Python support, Python 3.8 or later
- Install required Python packages: ``pip install -r tools/pynuttx/requirements.txt``
- Compile NuttX with debug level 3: ``CONFIG_DEBUG_SYMBOLS_LEVEL="-g3"``

.. Warning::
   The GDB Python API is not available in all versions of GDB. Make sure to use a version that supports Python.

.. Warning::
   NuttX must be compile with ``CONFIG_DEBUG_SYMBOLS=y`` and ``CONFIG_DEBUG_SYMBOLS_LEVEL="-g3"`` to use GDB with Python.

.. toctree::
   :caption: GDB Plugin Commands
   :maxdepth: 1

   gdb/irqinfo.rst