Re: Inexpensive Developer Level Commercial ADA compiler

[James Rogers <jimmaureenrogers@worldnet.att.net>]

William Forbes wrote:
> 
> Hi,
> Is there an inexpensive ($300 or less) developer level commercial ADA
> compiler?
> I have searched the internet for nearly a week and can't find something
> I can
> afford.  And I don't like time-limited and feature-limited "free
> trials."

That depends upon what you mean by "developer level". If you mean
you want online support included for $300 or less, then you are out
of luck. Of course, this problem is not just an Ada limitation.
You are out of luck with compiler vendors for all other languages
also.

If you meant that you want a compiler that closely adheres to the
language standard and implements all the annexes, then you want
GNAT, which can be obtained for free, if you do not want support.
GNAT does not impose time or feature limitations. You get a full
Ada compiler.

If you purchase support from ACT you will not only get GNAT,
you will get access to the newest versions of GNAT, as well as a
strong support organization.

If you want support, then there are a number of compiler vendors
willing to sell you compilers. Note that the cost of the compiler
may be highly negotiable, but the cost of support will be much
less negotiable. It costs a compiler vendor significant
resources to provide support. Those resources are expensive.
You must pay for what you get.

Jim Rogers
Colorado Springs, Colorado USA