High-speed block-diagram languages for microprocessors and minicomputers in instrumentation, control and simulation

Abstract

Block-diagram languages implement instrumentation, control and simulation programs in terms of analog-computer-like block diagrams. Block-operators, which range from simple adders to complete real-time controllers and amplitude-distribution analyzers, are assembly-language macros, ROM subroutines or microprograms. Block-diagram languages are readily accepted by engineers, who need not learn assembly language and can still obtain essentially optimal execution speed on small machines. Block-diagram-programmed minicomputers can beat a CDC 6400 using FORTRAN, and microprocessor execution is much more efficient than PL/M. Machine independent block-diagram programs are sorted and cross-translated by optimizing translators, which eliminate redundant memory references. Efficient block-operator macros, subroutines or microprograms are written once and for all by computer specialists, but new operators can be added at will. This paper discusses an optimal minicomputer translator, an interactive microcomputer system using BASIC to generate and test block-diagram programs, hand-translation for small microprocessor programs and some applications.