Xlation of Languages

Hello, everyone...

I'm one of the new guys, looking for ideas.

I have several old, math intensive programs dealing with astronomy. I want to convert them to FTN95, and I'm looking for ways to reduce the work involved.

The input programs are all in Powerbasic 32 (DOS), so some of the instructions will translate verbatim. Some, however, will be labor intensive There aren't enough programs to warrant writing a translator, but I would be interested in hearing any ideas you guys have.

Many thanks,

You didn't say if you were using win32 or .net. If win32, I would recommend

1. spending some time reviewing your data structures and then defining them in a module. This gives some structure to your re-coding approach.
2. look at clearwin for both data entry and results presentation. I often use a default data file then provide clearwin menus for modifying the data selection. If you are doing a number of programs, they could become menu options of the one program and a consistent approach may simplify converting multiple programs. Start with a simple clearwin program with drop down menus for new selections and you can easily initiate further 'pop-up' windows of results. This is relatively easy and very effective in expanding the options for both data and results presentation.

As for converting the code, get a good screen editor / IDE that you like and remember, fewer key strokes means fewer errors.

John

Thanks, John C. The module idea especially is a good one. 😄