FRONT END OF THE MODULA COMPILER

Abstract

This dissertation aims firstly at designing and then at constructing the Front End of the compiler of a multiprogramming language called MODUL& constructed by "Prof. N. mirth" and his collegeues at "Institute for Informatic, Switzerland". As stated by them, their main aim in constructing this lang-uage was to concent rate on novel features of multiprogramming. Every Modula program constitutes an abstract machine that (apart from isolated parts called device modules) is defined entirely by the definition of MODULA. Hence, what we call language is in effect an infinite collection of abstract machine or more appropriately a tool kit out of which an arbitrary abstract machine can be engineered. The aim behind the construction of this frond end is to enable an existing computer PDP-11 to function as an universal interpretter. Modula has been chosen as the tool kit to reflect the dominant structural aspects of present computers truthfully and to hide their ; pecul,arities to a' large degree, thereby creating a more systematic tool that is easier to comprehend and manage.