[comp.software-eng] Suggestions on a programming language wanted

bellon@haydn.kulesat.uucp (06/26/89)

We are an image processing group and would like to switch from the
programming language we are using now (VAX-Pascal, only running under
VMS) to a more portable language.

We are considering C, C++ and Ada. We have some general idea about the
possibilities and the weaknesses of the languages (the purely technical
aspect). However, we would like to obtain more information on the practical
aspects, as e.g. with regards to the compatibility with other groups. We
have the idea that (in Europe) C is THE language used in most companies.
If Ada is not going to become more widespread, using C might be the safer
choice, although we do not feel that lucky with the software engineering
aspects of C). If the opposite becomes true, we might go trough pains to
convert to a less powerful and less userfriendly language only to find
ourselves in a suboptimal position again.

If you have considered simular alternatives in the near past, please
E-mail the arguments that have motivated your choice.
Also, if you know about some arguments you feel we probably have overlooked,
please feel free to mail them.

But, please do not start a pathetic discussion between Ada and C fans on
the net.

Anyone has a conversion program from VAX-Pascal to any of the languages
I mentioned ?


Erwin Bellon (Software Manager)
Katholieke Universiteit Leuven
Dept. Elect. Engineering
ESAT / MI2
Kard. Mercierlaan 94
3030 HEVERLEE
Belgium

Tel. 32 - 16 - 220931 (ext. 1041)

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