Topic 3: Computers - Translators

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering the definitions and mechanisms of computer program translators, including assemblers, compilers, and interpreters.

Source Code

Code fit for humans, which acts as the input for a translator program.

Machine Code

Code fit for the computer that does not require a translator to be executed.

Translator

A program that converts source code into machine code.

Assembler

A translator used specifically for assembly code, which is a low-level language.

High-level languages

Programming languages that require a translator named either a compiler or an interpreter.

Interpreter

A translator that reads one line of source code, translates it, and immediately sends it to the CPU to execute.

Compiler

A translator that reads the entire source code file, translates it completely, and produces machine code which is then executed.

Factors for choosing a translator

Considerations include speed, portability, interactivity, error-handling, testing and debugging, and secrecy.