A Method of Debugging Programs and a Universal Debugging Program for the Minsk-2 and Minsk-22 Computers,

Abstract

Errors in the programs introduced into a computer are algorithmic, programming, and punching. The programming errors considered in the article can be subdivided into these three groups: (1) instruction errors (operation code, addressing, shift constants, address alteration, miswriting); (2) storage-allocation errors (when the same storage block is used for storing various information at various times); (3) program-execution errors (conditional transfers, etc.). This sequence of debugging is suggested: first, punching errors are corrected; then, program-execution errors, particularly unwanted cycling; and, finally, storage-allocation errors. Debugging aid routines developed by the manufacturer of Minsk-2 computers and subsequently improved routines are analyzed, and their common features and shortcomings are clarified. This analysis is laid as a basis for developing a universal debugging routine; its principal features and block diagram are given. Comprising 10208 instructions, this universal routine prints information on the execution of principal stages of each instruction of the program being debugged and prints selected segments of storages. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 21, 1970
Accession Number
AD0714881

Entities

People

  • N. G. Zaitsev

Organizations

  • National Air and Space Intelligence Center

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Addressing
  • Computer Programming
  • Computers
  • Computing-Related Activities
  • Debugging
  • Instructions
  • Sequences

Fields of Study

  • Computer science
  • Engineering

Readers

  • Computer Programming and Software Development.
  • Computer Science.