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Computer Languages :computer::face_with_cowboy_hat::game_die: (Machine…
Computer Languages :computer::face_with_cowboy_hat::game_die:
Machine Code
Machine code is the language that the computer understands. In machine code, the instructions are made up of binary numbers
Advantages
Machine code runs very quickly as it does not need to be translated
Disadvantages
Machine code is very difficult for humans to read and understand
Processor specific – they can only run on the processor type they have been written on
High Level Languages
High level languages were developed as a result of machine code being so difficult to understand. A high level language will make use of English words and phrases.
Advantages
Contain English words and phrases so they are easier to read and understand
Easier to spot errors and bugs because they are easier to understand
Portable – the program can run on more than one type of processor
Disadvantages
They need to be translated into machine code so are slower to run
Translators
Before a high level language can be understood and run by a computer we need to translate it into machine code.
Compiler
A compiler translates high level language instructions, called source code, into machine code or object code. It does this by going through the source one line at a time and translating it. It puts the translation into a file and then moves on.
When the whole program has been translated, the object code can be run. There is no need to translate the source code again, unless the program is changed.
If there are syntax errors – errors in grammar – it lists them. The object code cannot be run until the whole program is translated.
Interpreter
An interpreter does not produce object code (a stand alone piece of code).The interpreter translates and executes each line of the program in turn.
Disadvantages
If code is repeated, as in a loop, the code is translated and run many times.
Individual runs are slower because of the previous two points.
A translation is not saved, the interpreter must be present to run code.
Advantages
Interpreters can run partial code or code under development.
If errors are present, then they are highlighted immediately and are therefore easier to detect and fix.