High level and low level languages Flashcards
High level language
Has been developed to be a little like a human language. This language is much easier to read and work with than a low level.
Low level language
More closely reflect the mechanical workings of CPU. The advantage is that it runs very fast on the PC. Needs an assembler to be processed.
Machine code
Programming language consist of binary numbers which CPU can respond directly.
Assembly language
A low-level programming language that uses mnemonic codes to create programs. The mnemonic codes
Syntax
The structure of language in a computer program.
Compiler
Translates whole program into machine code before the program is run. The machine code is saved and stored separately to the high-level code.
Interpreter
The CPU executes each instruction before the interpreter moves to translate the next instruction.
Executable file (.exe)
A file format that a computer can directly process.
Source code
Code in its text-based form and need to be translated into machine code before running.
Assembler
Converts assembly language into machine code. It will convert mnemonics into machine code.
Driver
A program that controls a device, such as printer or keyboard. Written in low level language.
Advantages of high-level language
Easier to read and maintain
Less of technical skills required
Diff between compiler and interpreter
Compiler is faster
Compiler translates the whole program into machine code before the program is run.
Interpreter is easier to debug
Advantages of low level language
Used for programming big apps. It runs faster and it’s more efficient.
Translator
CPU only understand series of binary numbers. The translator converts all programming languages into binary code.
