Analysis of the Impact of the Ada Runtime Environment on Software Reuse
Abstract
The number of applications using the Ada language is increasing rapidly with the availability of over 200 base and derived validated compilers. Reports indicate that many of these applications have been successfully developed from reusable software parts or have been developed to yield reusable software parts. In contrast of these reports, other applications have identified deficiencies in the Ada RunTime Environment (RTE) that have necessitated restricted use of the Ada with a consequent impact on the potential reuse of Ada software. Therefore, improving the reuse of software in these applications depends to some extent upon careful analysis and understanding of the issues related to software reuse and the Ada RTE. The latter applications typically comprise embedded Mission Critical Computer Resource (MCCR) systems that must satisfy real-time performance constraints that are usually dependent upon specialized hardware. These constraints have caused the intrusion of non-Ada code into the applications and the exploitation of specific idiosyncrasies of the RTE that are within the semantic fringes of the Ada standard DoD83. While reducing the use of non-Ada code may not be feasible for applications that must interact with special controls, devices, and weapon systems, ameliorating the deleterious effects of deficiencies and idiomatic behavior of the RTE on the reuse of Ada parts must receive prompt attention. (KR)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 31, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA230285
Entities
People
- Anthony Gargaro
Organizations
- Computer Sciences Corporation