AVR: Place code after interrupt vector table.

Allows code to be placed directly after the interrupt vector table on AVR targets.

By Georg-Johann Lay <gjl@sourceware.org> October 2, 2026 committed

This change modifies the AVR linker script to include a new section pattern, *(SORT(.vectortext*)), which is placed immediately after the interrupt vector table. This allows developers to place code directly following the vector table, addressing a specific linker issue (PR ld/34686).

In Details

Enhances the AVR linker script (avr.sc) by introducing a new section sorting pattern *(SORT(.vectortext*)) after the .vectors section. This modification is intended to facilitate the placement of interrupt service routine code immediately following the vector table, a common requirement for certain AVR microcontroller applications and a fix for PR ld/34686.

For Context

AVR: A family of microcontrollers developed by Atmel (now Microchip Technology). They are popular for hobbyist projects and embedded systems.
interrupt vector table: A table in memory that stores the starting addresses of interrupt service routines. When an interrupt occurs, the processor uses the interrupt number as an index into this table to find the correct handler.
linker script: A file that provides instructions to the linker on how to arrange code and data sections in the final executable or library. It controls memory layout and symbol placement.
.vectortext*: A section pattern used in linker scripts. The asterisk acts as a wildcard, and SORT indicates that sections matching this pattern should be sorted and placed together. .vectortext likely refers to code executed immediately after the interrupt vector table.

Filed Under: avrlinkerscripting

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