I use the CCS compiler and I agree, it really does chomp up memory - but
that's why it's so cheap !.
The more you pay, the more optimising the compiler I suppose.

You wait 'till you start putting puts() and printf() in your code, these
really do wipe out memory like nothing on earth !.

But dont forget, you can mix C with assembly with the CCS compiler, so you
may be able to mix it to get the most out of it.
Failing that, either go for PICs with more ROM/RAM or spend a little more
cash on a better quality compiler.

I pretty much guarantee you will have some strange experiences with the
compiler to. For example, sometimes when you compiler, the compiler will
return an error which shouldnt be an error, and then just by deleting a
couple of blank lines here and there, it will then compile successfully ! -
weird huh ?. It seems to have a mind of its own sometimes.

Make good use of the CCS message board web page !.

All said and done, if you put up with its occassional tantrums, it is
definitely worth the money. I have designed two products with this compiler
that are doing well on the market.

Regards,
Darren