pool@ANL-MCS.ARPA (01/07/84)
From: pool@ANL-MCS.ARPA (Pool) Based upon our preliminary evaluations and our experience in implementing a subset of the NAG (Numerical Algorithms Group) Fortran Library, we feel that the Microsoft MS-Fortran (Release 3.13) is the best of the currently available Fortran compilers for MS-DOS in the reasonable price range, i.e., excluding the Intel compiler. Using MS-Fortran, we have implemented 50 user-callable routines (requiring about another 100 auxiliary routines) of the 500 user-callable routines (requiring about another 500 auxiliary routines) in the NAG Fortran Library for minis, mainframes, and supercomputers with no major difficulties. We have executed over 100 test programs to exercise these 50 routines; therefore, the total usage of the compiler has been significant. However, there are two warnings: 1) do not try a major Fortran software development project with MS-Fortran unless you have a hard disk; and 2) be aware that the lack of an object module librarian will pose major "bookkeeping" problems. I understand that the DR Fortran 77 compiler is still in the test phase; however, the description in the DR ISV Forum Newsletter is very promising, in particular, their anticipated ability to port it among operating systems and chips. Jim Pool Numerical Algorithms Group pool@anl-mcs