The language Vector C is a superset of the conventional (scalar) programming language C with extensions to facilitate vector processing. In tbis paper, a methodology 'for performing language cJ:tensions and the language features of Vector C arc presented. The implementation of Vcctor C on the Cyber 205 is nearing completion. Some empirical data arc presented which demonstrate that Vector C can generate code which executes at speeds which meet or exceed those for equi.valent statements from 205 Vector Fortran. Readers arc assumed to have some knowledge of the C language.
The Vector C language was designed and implemented on the CDC Cyber 205 at Purdue University by the summer of 1984 [1,2,3]. Some modifications on the language syntax and enhancements in the compiler (mainly, vector descriptors, vector function calls, and vector macros) have been done here at the SCRI of FSU. Although this paper discusses the revisions of the language syntax defined in the previous paper [2], the key features of the Vector C language are also reviewed.
With the aid of the EM (encoding machine) compiler tool kit, a preliminary version of a scalar C compiler was implemented on the Cyber 205 in a relatively short period of time. This C compiler emphasizes functionality more than efficiency. Several benchmark programs were used to measure the performance and to compare it with an equivalent C compiler for the VAX/UNIX system. In order to make it a production‐quality C compiler, further enhancements will be necessary. This paper presents some motivating factors, implementation details, and proposes further work on developing the Cyber 205 C compiler.
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