title: Using MinGW C compiler instead of Microsoft Visual Studio Express for Python
body: <p>I am trying to install the python Package pyOpt and have difficulties using Microsoft Visual Studio Express because I am running a 64 bit install of Python.</p>
  
  <p>The pyOpt developers recommend using MinGW-W64 if the system doesn't have access to other c/Fortran compilers.</p>
  
  <p>I have now installed MinGW-W64 but it seems like the standard <code>python setup.py install</code> seems to still want to use VS.</p>
  
  <p>How do I tell the installer to rather use MinGW's compiler instead? Should MinGW come with the necessary c compiler out of the box or must I first install one in MinGW?</p>