lwtools
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Description:
Cross-development tools for Motorola 6809 and Hitachi 6309
Type: Formula  |  Latest Version: 4.24@0  |  Tracked Since: Dec 24, 2025
Links: Homepage  |  formulae.brew.sh
Category: Developer tools
Tags: 6809 6309 retro-computing assembly cross-compiler embedded
Install: brew install lwtools
About:
LWTools is a comprehensive suite of cross-development utilities specifically designed for the Motorola 6809 and Hitachi 6309 microprocessors. It includes an assembler, linker, and converter tools, enabling developers to build and manage software for these legacy 8-bit architectures on modern systems. The suite is essential for retro computing enthusiasts and developers working with CoCo, Dragon, or other 6809-based hardware.
Key Features:
  • LWASM: A powerful, macro-capable assembler supporting 6809 and 6309 instruction sets
  • LWLINK: A flexible linker for creating executable binaries from object files
  • LWCVT: A utility for converting binary files into various object file formats
  • Cross-platform support allowing development on macOS, Linux, and Windows
Use Cases:
  • Developing new software or games for Tandy Color Computer (CoCo) or Dragon 32/64
  • Porting existing 6809 assembly code to modern development environments
  • Creating firmware or control software for custom 6809/6309 hardware projects
Alternatives:
  • AS9 – AS9 is another 6809 assembler, but LWTools provides a more complete suite with a modern linker and better macro support.
  • gcc6809 – gcc6809 offers a C compiler for 6809, whereas LWTools focuses on providing a native, high-performance assembly toolchain.
Version History
Detected Version Rev Change Commit
Dec 24, 2025 9:09am 4.24 0 VERSION_BUMP 91cc5c7a
Jan 8, 2025 4:53pm 0 VERSION_BUMP 1ed84f5a
Sep 14, 2024 6:16pm 0 VERSION_BUMP 6d65840a