Enabling RISC-V Exploration on AMD APUs with macOS: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 01/07/2025

Want to explore the exciting world of RISC-V instruction set architecture but stuck with a macOS machine and an AMD APU? This guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough enabling RISC-V development on your system. We'll navigate the complexities of virtual machines and necessary software, empowering you to compile and run your first RISC-V program, opening doors to a vibrant open-source ecosystem. Let's get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Download Necessary Files

    • Select the workflow containing the artifacts and initiate the download.
    • Locate the 'straight text Capt' file within the downloaded content and place it in your case folder.
    Locate the 'straight text Capt' file within the downloaded content and place it in your case folder. Locate the 'straight text Capt' file within the downloaded content and place it in your case folder.
    Download Necessary Files

  2. Prepare your System

    • If you have a dedicated GPU, disable it before proceeding.
    • Consider increasing your VRAM size.
    • Disable Lexi boot and remove any green if present.
    • MacBook Pro 16).
    Use one of the provided SMBIOS profiles (example: MacBook Pro 16). Use one of the provided SMBIOS profiles (example: MacBook Pro 16). Use one of the provided SMBIOS profiles (example: MacBook Pro 16). Use one of the provided SMBIOS profiles (example: MacBook Pro 16).
    Prepare your System
    • Perform macOS updates (minor ones are sufficient).
    Perform macOS updates (minor ones are sufficient).
    Prepare your System

  3. Download Additional Files and Address Potential Issues

    • Visit the new threads website for additional details and download necessary files (AML and kicks files).
    • Download AML and kicks files for backlight functionality and address HDR/OLED display issues.
    • Address graphical artifacts and Chrome-based browser issues by considering disabling GP rasterization.
    • Download and apply 'restrict Advanced kicks' boot arguments to fix freezes and crashes.
    Download and apply 'restrict Advanced kicks' boot arguments to fix freezes and crashes. Download and apply 'restrict Advanced kicks' boot arguments to fix freezes and crashes. Download and apply 'restrict Advanced kicks' boot arguments to fix freezes and crashes. Download and apply 'restrict Advanced kicks' boot arguments to fix freezes and crashes.
    Download Additional Files and Address Potential Issues

  4. GitHub Setup

    • Log into your GitHub account and navigate to the actions section.
    Log into your GitHub account and navigate to the actions section.
    GitHub Setup
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Tips

  • The Ryzen 6000 series APUs are NOT supported.
  • macOS versions from 10.15 to macOS 14 are supported.
  • Expect potential brief freezes (especially with Firefox) even after successful installation. Xcode *seems* operational, but further testing is needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Installation of Dependencies

Reason: Missing or improperly installed build tools, compilers, or RISC-V toolchains can lead to compilation errors and prevent the simulation from running.
Solution: Carefully follow the installation instructions and verify the successful installation of all required dependencies using their respective version checkers.

2. Path Configuration Issues

Reason: Incorrectly configured environment variables (PATH, etc.) will prevent the system from finding necessary binaries, leading to 'command not found' errors.
Solution: Double-check that the paths to your RISC-V toolchain and other required tools are correctly added to your system's environment variables.

3. Mismatched Toolchain Versions

Reason: Incompatibility between the selected RISC-V ISA, toolchain version, and the simulator can cause unpredictable behavior or compilation failures.
Solution: Ensure that the RISC-V toolchain version is compatible with the chosen ISA extension and the specific simulator being used, referring to their respective documentation.

FAQs

Why use a virtual machine (VM) for RISC-V development on macOS with an AMD APU?
macOS doesn't natively support RISC-V. A VM allows us to run a Linux distribution, which provides the necessary tools and compilers for RISC-V development. This keeps our macOS system clean and avoids potential conflicts.
What if I encounter errors during the compilation or execution of my RISC-V code?
Troubleshooting depends on the specific error. Check your installation steps, ensure all dependencies are correctly installed and configured, verify the RISC-V code for syntax mistakes, and consult the documentation for the specific RISC-V tools and simulator you're using. Online forums and communities can also provide helpful support.