NATIONAL COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND ECONOMICS PRESENTATION # 1 FAHAD IQBAL & BILAL ABID BS-CS (V) COMPILER CONSTRUCTION MAM ANAM YOUSAF
Planning a compiler In this presentation, we'll explore the steps involved in planning your very own compiler, from defining goals to choosing the right approach and leveraging valuable resources. By the end, you'll be equipped with a roadmap to embark on this challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Approaches to compiler development The compiler development environment Testing and maintenance
Building Your Own Compiler: A Step-by-Step Guide Planning a Compiler: Define Your Goals Understand Compiler Phases Approaches to Compiler Development: Choose Your Approach Compiler Development Environment: Essential Tools Testing and Maintenance: Debuggers Testing and Maintaining Your Compiler
Define Your Goals What programming language will your compiler process (source language)? (e.g., Python, Java) What kind of code will it output (target code)? (e.g., machine code, assembly code) Are there any specific functionalities you want to include (e.g., code optimization, comprehensive error reporting )?
Understand Compiler Phases A compiler typically consists of multiple stages working together: Lexical Analysis (Scanning): Breaks down the source code into meaningful tokens (keywords, identifiers, operators, etc.). Syntax Analysis (Parsing): Verifies if the code adheres to the grammatical rules of the source language. Semantic Analysis: Ensures the code is semantically correct (e.g., types are compatible). Intermediate Code Generation (optional): Creates a machine-independent representation of the program. Code Optimization (optional): Improves the performance of the generated code. Code Generation: Translates the intermediate code (or directly from parsing) into target code.
Choose Your Approach There are several approaches to compiler development: Write from Scratch: Offers maximum control but demands in-depth knowledge of compiler theory and design. Compiler-Compiler(Generator) Tools: Tools like YACC and LEX can automate parts of the compiler based on specifications. Reusable Libraries and Frameworks: Leverage existing libraries or frameworks for functionalities like parsing or code generation.
Compiler-Compiler Tools: YAAC: YACC stands for Yet Another Compiler Compiler . YACC provides a tool to produce a parser for a given grammar. YACC is a program designed to compile a LALR (1) grammar. It is used to produce the source code of the syntactic analyzer of the language produced by LALR (1) grammar. The input of YACC is the rule or grammar and the output is a C program . LEX: Lex is a program that generates lexical analyzer. It is used with YACC parser generator. The lexical analyzer is a program that transforms an input stream into a sequence of tokens. It reads the input stream and produces the source code as output through implementing the lexical analyzer in the C program.
Libraries and Frameworks: Libraries: A library is a collection of pre-written code that you can use to perform specific tasks. Libraries are often used to reduce the amount of code a programmer needs to write by providing reusable functions or classes that can be called upon as needed . Standard Libraries: These are libraries that are included with a programming language by default. These libraries provide a set of standard functions and utilities that are useful for many applications. For example, the C standard library includes functions for input/output, string manipulation, memory allocation, and mathematical operations . Third-party Libraries: These libraries are developed by organizations or individuals other than the creators of the programming language. These libraries can provide additional functionality that is not included in the standard library and may be distributed as open-source or commercial products.
Libraries and Frameworks: Frameworks: A framework is a set of libraries or tools that provide a structure for building applications. It typically includes code libraries, templates, and guidelines for how to use the libraries to develop applications. Frameworks can be useful for developers because they provide a standardized way to build and organize code, which can help streamline the development process and make it easier to build and maintain complex applications. Frameworks are used in various programming sectors like : Web development: This employs a variety of languages, including Javascript, Python, and PHP. Popular artificial intelligence frameworks include Tensorflow, Accord.Net, etc. Development of mobile apps: Native Script, React Native, and Flutter is a few of the well-liked frameworks.
Compiler Development Environment Essential Tools Text Editor: Your primary workspace for writing and editing compiler source code. Popular options include: Visual Studio Code Sublime Text Atom Key Features: Syntax Highlighting: Enhances code readability by color-coding different elements. Code Completion: Suggests code snippets as you type, improving efficiency. Debugging Tools: Aids in identifying and resolving errors within your compiler code.
Lexical Analyzers and Parsers Lexical Analyzer (Scanner ): Lexical analyzers, often called scanners, play a crucial role. They dissect the source code into fundamental building blocks, such as keywords, identifiers, and operators. Tools like Flex and JLex can assist you in building robust lexical analyzers. Once the code is tokenized, parsers take center stage. Parser: Verifies if the sequence of tokens adheres to the grammar rules of the source language. Tools: Bison, ANTLR Parsers act like grammar checkers, ensuring the tokens form a grammatically correct structure based on the source language's rules. Popular parser generators include Bison and ANTLR.
Debuggers Debuggers are essential for identifying and rectifying errors within your compiler code. Key Features: Setting Breakpoints: Allows you to pause the compiler's execution at specific points for inspection. Stepping Through Code: Enables you to execute the code line by line, examining variable values and program behavior. Stack Trace Analysis: Helps you pinpoint the origin of errors by visualizing the sequence of function calls that led to the issue.
Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) IDEs consolidate numerous tools into a unified platform, streamlining compiler development. Popular Options: Eclipse Visual Studio IntelliJ IDEA Advantages: Project Management: Organize your compiler's source code, libraries, and assets efficiently. Integrated Debuggers: Leverage built-in debugging functionalities without needing separate tools. Code Completion and Refactoring: Enhance coding efficiency and maintainability.
Testing and Maintaining Your Compiler Testing Strategies Multi-tiered Testing Approach: Unit Testing: Isolates and validates individual compiler modules. Integration Testing: Verifies how modules interact and function together. System Testing: Evaluates the entire compiler's performance with various inputs. Acceptance Testing: Assesses if the compiler meets the designated requirements and user needs. Unit Testing Techniques Focus on individual compiler modules. Techniques: White-box testing: Examines the internal structure and logic of the code. Black-box testing: Treats the module as a black box, focusing on inputs, outputs, and functionalities.
Integration Testing Strategies Validates how modules interconnect and collaborate. Strategies: Top-down approach: Tests modules from the highest level down, progressively integrating lower-level modules. Bottom-up approach: Tests modules from the lowest level up, gradually integrating them into larger subsystems.
Maintenance Considerations Proactive measures to ensure the compiler's longevity and effectiveness. Key considerations: Bug fixing: Address errors and unexpected behaviors reported by users or encountered during testing. Performance optimization: Continuously strive to enhance the compiler's speed and efficiency. Evolving language support: Adapt the compiler to accommodate changes and additions to the source language. Documentation updates: Maintain up-to-date documentation reflecting the compiler's modifications.