Using Ada (R) on a workstation for large projects

Alsys has implemented validated Ada compilers that are hosted and targeted on a variety of microprocessor-based workstations, including the IBM PC/AT. The availability of Ada compilers for these kinds of inexpensive, widely available machines considerably enhances the development options for large efforts such as the NASA Space Station, and this is addressed from both an implementation and a user perspective. First, the issue of large program development on a workstation is discussed: how the compiler must handle this, and how an inherently decentralized approach can be managed. Next, the focus is on code efficiency and the compiler and run-time design decisions that help meet this goal are described. It is concluded with a presentation of benchmarks that are quite encouraging with respect to the run-time efficiency of Ada code compared with other languages.