## How Can You Handle Multiple Compilers in CMake?

CMake's Limited Support for Multiple Compilers

CMake employs a strict policy of using a single universal compiler for all C source files (CMAKE_CXX_COMPILER). This inherent limitation poses challenges for mixing host and cross-compiling within the same project.

Inability to Override per Target

Currently, CMake lacks the infrastructure to override the CMAKE_CXX_COMPILER setting on a per-target basis. This restriction complicates the simultaneous management of compilers with varying architectures.

Solutions:

1. Multiple CMake Invocations:

Acknowledging CMake's limitations, the most straightforward solution is to run CMake multiple times, each with a different compiler assigned. This approach is practical even for scenarios like compiling 32-bit and 64-bit binaries from the same compiler toolchain.

2. Custom Commands (Not Recommended):

An alternative though less elegant method is to resort to custom commands. This workaround involves creating glorified shell scripts that circumvent CMake's built-in compiler-handling mechanisms. However, this approach deviates from CMake's objective of maintaining modularity and portability.

3. Separate CMakeLists.txt Files:

The most recommended solution is to create separate CMakeLists.txt files for different architectures or compilers. Despite the inconvenience of multiple build steps, this approach ensures clear separation and facilitates independent compilation of each component. Maintaining common code in separate include() files enhances code reuse and reduces redundancy.

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