Uscope is a new, from-scratch debugger for Linux written in C and Python. It aims to be a modern, user-friendly alternative to GDB, boasting a simpler, more intuitive command language and interface. Key features include reverse debugging capabilities, a TUI interface with mouse support, and integration with Python scripting for extended functionality. The project is currently under active development and welcomes contributions.
A new debugger for Linux, named "Uscope," has been introduced. Developed entirely from scratch, Uscope aims to provide a modern and efficient debugging experience. The project emphasizes a clean and understandable codebase written primarily in C, intending to facilitate contributions and extensions by others. It leverages the Linux kernel's ptrace facility, the underlying mechanism for process tracing and manipulation, which allows Uscope to control and inspect the execution of other programs.
Uscope's feature set includes standard debugging capabilities such as setting breakpoints, stepping through code (both line by line and instruction by instruction), inspecting variables, and evaluating expressions. The debugger is designed to be terminal-based, eschewing graphical user interfaces for a lightweight and responsive experience familiar to those comfortable with command-line tools. While still in its early stages of development, the project roadmap suggests future enhancements, including support for additional architectures beyond its initial x86_64 focus. The source code is publicly available on GitHub under the MIT license, encouraging community involvement and fostering open-source collaboration. The creator emphasizes the educational aspect of the project, viewing it as a learning exercise in systems programming and debugger implementation. This educational focus is reflected in the clear and commented codebase, intended to be approachable for those interested in understanding how debuggers work.
Summary of Comments ( 123 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42889407
Hacker News users generally expressed interest in Uscope, praising its clean UI and the ambition of building a debugger from scratch. Several commenters questioned the practical need for a new debugger given existing robust options like GDB, LLDB, and Delve, wondering about Uscope's potential advantages. Some discussed the challenges of debugger development, highlighting the complexities of DWARF parsing and platform compatibility. A few users suggested integrations with other tools, like REPLs, and requested features like remote debugging. The novelty of a fresh approach to debugging generated curiosity, but skepticism regarding long-term viability and differentiation also emerged. Some expressed concerns about feature parity with existing debuggers and the sustainability of the project.
The Hacker News post titled "Show HN: Uscope, a new Linux debugger written from scratch" generated a fair amount of discussion, with several commenters expressing interest and offering feedback on the project.
One of the most compelling threads revolved around the challenges of writing a debugger from scratch. A commenter pointed out the significant effort involved, highlighting the complexities of handling different architectures, signal handling, and the intricacies of the ptrace API. This spurred further discussion about the motivation behind creating a new debugger when established options like GDB exist. The author of Uscope, 'jcalabro,' responded to these queries, explaining that their goal was not necessarily to replace GDB but to explore new ideas in debugger design and create a more streamlined and modern debugging experience, potentially focusing on specific niches. They also acknowledged the magnitude of the undertaking.
Another key area of discussion centered around the user interface and user experience. Commenters questioned the decision to use a terminal user interface (TUI) instead of a graphical one, with some arguing that a GUI would be more intuitive and user-friendly. Others expressed their preference for a TUI and appreciated its simplicity and efficiency. This led to a broader conversation about the trade-offs between TUIs and GUIs in debugging tools.
Several commenters offered specific suggestions for improving Uscope, such as adding support for reverse debugging, enhancing the display of variables and data structures, and improving performance. The author engaged with these comments, expressing gratitude for the feedback and indicating their willingness to consider these suggestions for future development.
The discussion also touched upon the technical details of Uscope's implementation. Commenters inquired about the programming language used (C++), the choice of libraries, and the overall architecture of the debugger. There was also some discussion about the potential for integrating Uscope with other development tools.
Overall, the comments on the Hacker News post demonstrated a genuine interest in Uscope and provided valuable feedback for its further development. While acknowledging the challenges involved in creating a new debugger, commenters recognized the potential of Uscope to offer a fresh perspective on debugging and provide a useful tool for developers.