Translators

Translators

1. A program that converts programs written in assembly language or source code into machine code.

   • So the processor can understand and execute the program.

2. Types

   • Low-level
     • Assembler
       • Translates assembly language to machine code
         • Programmer writes assembly code
           • Processor understands machine code
   • High-level
     • Compiler
       • Translates source code to object code, which is then translated to machine code.
       • Advantages
         • Translates whole program before it is run
           • Executes program faster
           • Code usually optimised
           • Compiler does not need to be present when code is run
             • More memory efficient for processor
         • Original code kept secret
       • Disadvantages
         • Program will not run with syntax errors
           • Makes writing code more difficult
         • Code needs to be recompiled following any changes
           • Harder to try out commands
         • Only works on specific type of processor
     • Interpreter
       • Translates source code to machine code
       • Advantages
         • Program will always run and only stop when it finds a syntax error
           • Easy to write code
         • Code does not need to be recompiiled following changes
           • Easier to try out commands
             • Good for beginners to learn and try out code
       • Disadvantages
         • Program is translated and executed line by line
           • Slower to execute program
           • Code not optimised
           • Interpreter must be installed to run program
         • Source code can be seen
           • Could be copied