Fine-tuning the code

When the algorithm is as perfect as it can get, and the program is still not running fast enough, it is time to tweak the code. In Chapter 5, Fine-Tuning the Code, we looked at different methods to achieve faster performance by making small changes. In a process we call optimization, we can change the Delphi code so that it will execute in less time, or we can convert it into assembler code. The latter option should be used sparingly, as assembler code is hard to maintain; it also prevents us from compiling to multiple platforms. The last option, which I discussed later in the book, is to replace the code with an external library.

As a first step in fine-tuning the code, you should always check the compiler settings. The most important setting is probably optimization, which can sometimes make a big difference. My recommendation, however, is to disable optimization in the DEBUG version and enable it for RELEASE. Disabling optimization can make a big improvement...