Keil
Keil consists of µVision + Development Tool Kit. µVision is the shell, while the development tool kit is the core, combined to form four complete software products. For example, keil5 (Keil µVision5) includes four products:
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• Keil for Arm
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• Keil for C51
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• Keil for C251
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• Keil for C166
Similarly, Keil4, Keil3, Keil2, and Keil1 also have four products; however, there has been no release of keil1. Keil for Arm is also known as MDK, MDK-Arm, etc., and is referred to as MDK5, MDK4, etc., based on the version of µVision.
µVision
Overview
µVision is a window-based software development platform that combines a powerful modern editor, project manager, and build tools. It integrates all the tools needed for developing embedded applications, including C/C++ compilers, macro assemblers, linkers/locators, and HEX file generators. In simple terms: µVision is an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that includes an editor, compiler, linker, etc.
Versions
µVision5 (2013), µVision4 (2009), µVision3 (2006), µVision2 (unknown), µVision1 (unknown). In simple terms: µVision5 is what everyone refers to as keil5.
Development Tool Kit
Divided into four series: Arm, C51, C251, C166. In simple terms: Arm is used for programming 32-bit microcontrollers, while C51 is used for programming 51 microcontrollers.
Common Misconceptions
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1. The µVision for Keil for Arm, C51, C251, and C166 is the same; µVision is the common part, and there are only five major versions: µVision5/4/3/2/1. Therefore, there is no difference between MDK5 and Keil5 C51’s µVision.
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2. These four software can be installed in the same directory; each development tool kit is independent and shares the µVision in the UV4 folder.
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3. The requirement for C51 to install Keil4 and MDK to install Keil5 is false; installing keil5 is sufficient.