NCR PC4I, Owner'S Manual

Page: 26 / 167

HISTORICAL DATA
Compilers
A compiler program translates source code from a program language
into object code. These languages are called “high-level” languages
because each program statement generates several machine-
language instructions. These languages may be designed to be either
more like common English (i.e., BASIC and COBOL), or to use normal
mathematical/scientific notation (i.e., FORTRAN and ALGOL). The
languages can also be procedure-oriented, i.e., Pascal and PL/1. Your
NCR Personal Computer dealer has compilers available for GW-
BASIC, COBOL, FORTRAN, and Pascal.
Linkers
Linker programs process one or more object code modules which have
been output from a compiler or assembler into one load module, to
create a program the computer can run.
Application Software
Application software programs are the tools you use to perform
specific functions such as:
1. Accounting, inventory, and order management.
2. Word processing, office automation, electronic mail.
3. Personal finances and correspondence.
4. Entertainment and education at home.
5. Processing sales, purchases, billings, and other transactions.
6. Processing tax and Social Security data.
7. Controlling and monitoring space flights and military operations.
8. Student record keeping, teaching programming, and research.
9. Communicating with information source services and, through
them, with other computer users.
10. Bank-at-home, shop-at-home, and even work-at-home arrange­
ments.
System software and program development software do not accom­
plish data processing. However, they are used in creating and
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OWNER S MANUAL