Unit 5.2 Language Translators

Translator

Software that converts programming code from one language to another.

Assembler

A type of translator that converts assembly language code into machine code.

Compiler

A translator that converts high-level programming code into low-level machine code all at once.

Interpreter

A translator that converts high-level code into low-level code one line at a time and executes it immediately.

Integrated Development Environment (IDE)

Software that provides tools for programmers to write, test, and debug code efficiently.

Single Stepping

Feature in IDEs that allows code to be executed one line at a time for checking and error detection.

Variable Watch Window

Tool in IDEs that displays the values of variables while the code is running.

Breakpoints

Feature in IDEs that allows the code to pause at specific points for error checking and variable value inspection.

Auto Complete

IDE feature that suggests complete statements for code elements like functions or variables to reduce errors and improve efficiency.

Pretty Printing

IDE feature that color-codes different parts of code for easy visual distinction and syntax error identification.

Auto Indent

IDE feature that automatically formats code indentation to improve readability and prevent code errors.

Error Diagnostics

IDE tool that helps locate and report errors in the code, providing details to aid in debugging.

Interpreter Pro 1

Runs until first error then stops

Interpreter Pro 2

Easier to debug as individual lines are tested

Interpreter Con

Runs slowly as code is translated one at a time

Interpreter Con

Needed each time program is run

Compiler Pro 1

Runs program faster (once compiled) as code is translated

Compiler Pro 2

Only needed once for initial translation

Compiler Con 1

Difficult to debug & test individual lines of code

Compiler Con 2

Code wont run if there is an error.

Interpreter Features

• Translates code 1 line at a time & executes immediately.

• Needed every time the program is run

• Runs until first error then stops

• Runs slowly because code is translated as program is running

• Doesn’t produce object code or executable file.

Compiler Features

• Translates all programming codes simultaneously

• Only needed once

• Runs programs quickly (once compiled) as code is translated

• Difficult to test individual lines as it will return list of errors for entire program

• Does produce object code and executable file