Unit 7 Software engineering

Editor

Allows programmer to enter, format and edit source code

Compiler

Converts source code into executeable machine code. Once compiled, a program can be run at any time

Interpreter

Convert each line of source code into machine code, and execute it line by line. The conversion process is performed each time the program needs to be run

Linker

A program which allows previously compiled code from software libraries to be linked together

Loader

A program which helps locate, identify and rectify errors in a program

Trace

A facility which displays the order in which the lines of a program are executed, and possible values of the variable

Break point

A facility which interrupts a program on a specific line of code, allowing the programmer to compare the values of variables against expected value.

Variable watch

A facility which displays the current value of any variable.

Memory inspector

A facility which will display the content of a section of a memory

Error diagnostic

Used when a program fail to compiler or to run. Error message is also displayed to help the programmer diagnose what have gone wrong

Libraries and its advantages

It is a collection of commonly used private functions and subprograms.

Advantages:

1. Private function and subprograms are stored in the same location

2. Save time as programmer can use the private function and subprograms in there

3. Have already been tested which mean they should work well

4. Contain less code, therefore easier to maintain