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A command language for the Ada environment
Abstract
A command language for a Minimal Ada Programming Support Environment (MAPSE) is described. This MAPSE Command Language (MCL) blends features from the UNIX* environment (such as IO redirection, pipes and background processing) with features of the Ada programming language (such as Ada-like parameter passing). The result is a command language which is easy to use, yet provides a variety of means for interconnecting tools. Details of the implementation of MCL are also discussed.
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I have argued that Ada is not an appropriate language for use as an APSE command language. Futher, it appears that the Stoneman vision of a self-contained, Ada-only environment will initially hinder rather than help because of the very high cost of getting started and of making existing host facilities and tools available in the APSE environment. Instead, an approach is suggested that makes APSE commands extensions of the host system and formulates APSE as an active agent that participates in program development. The advantages are more flexibility and less cost in getting started, as well as maintaining a more uniform environment in which programmers can work. While the characterization given here is sketchy at best, it deserves further exploration.
The unix* shell is a command programming language that provides an interface to the unix operating system. It contains several mechanisms found in algorithmic languages such as control-flow primitives, variables, and parameter passing. Constructs such as while, if, for, and case are available. Two-way communication is possible between the shell and commands. String-valued parameters, typically file names or flags, may be passed to a command. A return code is set by commands and may be used to determine the flow of control, and the standard output from a command may be used as input to the shell. The shell can modify the environment in which commands run. Input and output can be redirected and processes that communicate through “pipes” can be invoked. Commands are found by searching directories in the file system in a sequence that can be defined by the user.
Computer Program Development Specification for Ada Integrated Environmnet: MAPSE Command Processor Type B5
- M E Kranc
Appendix 60. SOF81 "Ada Language System Command Language
- Ada Language System Command