[R] Profiling R code and C code (Rprof and gprof)

[Yongchao Ge]

Hi,

I have searched R mail list archive and couldn't find my answers. The R 
extension describes how to make use of Rprof to profile R code. 
gprof can be also used for the same purpose for the 
C codes when the C codes are written independently and provided with a 
main() function.

I'm currently writing R codes meshed with C Codes, and use .Call as the 
interface between the two parts. Rprof reports details of each R 
functions, but does not report the details of the C functions.

I'm wondering if there is a way such that Rprof can report the detials of  
each C functions as did in gprof. 

One may suggest I can compile all of the C codes and write a main 
function, and then use the gprof. That's definitely true before I moved from .C to 
.Call. Since now the R codes and C codes are meshed in the same program, 
it does not seem a trivial job to separate the two parts neatly.

We can use "R -d gdb" to debug C codes meshed with R codes. If we can also 
profile the C functions called by the R codes, then it will much be 
productive to write useful C codes.

Any suggestions how to use Rprof and gprof to help me to spot a C 
function which I can work on to speed up my program will be much 
appreciated.

Thanks,

Yongchao