I have no problem using Studio 7 with elf files made with Studio 4.
But regarding backwards compatibility, would elf files made with AS7 program correctly if AS6 was the programming environment.
All sections are used in the elf file ( Flash, EEMEM, Fuses and Lock bits), and would need to ensure the chips were correctly programmed.
Anyone current doing / done this?
clawson 
The ELF format output by avr-ld has not changed between avr-gcc in AS6 and AS7. So, yes, you should be able to carry such a file back.
(in fact the only time the avr-elf format ever really changed was some time back in 2006 when it went from 16bit to elf32-avr which is what all current files are).
Re-opening this topic.
I have elf ( production files ) created using studio 7 that work fine programming devices using Studio 7, but when the very same elf file is loaded into Studio 4 - it crashes.
Proven over several files.
Need to use Studio 4 as it is on a old XP machine used by a contractor to do the programming.
Previously I had to create my elf file using Studio 4 to get past this problem, but now I don't have Studio 4 running - ( Driver problems with the PC, finfing AVR ISP and I dont want to break other things ) at this time.
It was mentioned that the elf file format hasn't changed, but clearly something from Studio 7s production fiile is affecting Studio 4.
I don't chack the device signature but in the elf file, just Flash, EEProm, Fuses and Lock bits.
Clues?
clawson I've never used it, never looked into it.. but I will if it's an option.
Ta
