Why MEX?

There are several situations where you might want to use a MEX-file:

MEX-files interface large pre-existing C or Fortran code with MATLAB without rewriting the code in MATLAB.
The algorithm to be implemented contains some for or while loops that can not be vectorized. MATLAB may not process loops as quickly as C or Fortran code. MEX-file loops run at normal C or Fortran code speed, resulting in a substantial performance increase.

MEX-files are not appropriate for all applications. MATLAB is a high-productivity system whose specialty is eliminating time-consuming, low-level programming in compiled languages like C or Fortran. In general, most programming should be done in MATLAB. Do not use the MEX facility unless your application requires it.

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