Re: Translating an embedded C algorithm

[Jeffrey Carter <spam.jrcarter.not@spam.acm.not.org>]

Talulah wrote:
> 
> I accept that may be the case. However, there are no Ada tools for very
> many microcontrollers. The cost drives the choice of microcontroller,
> and the microcontroller then drives the choice of development system.

There is Ada for every microcontroller with an ANSI C compiler. See

http://sofcheck.com/products/adamagic.html

> When was the last time you wrote an Ada program to run on a
> microcontroller such as a PIC or ATMega48, i.e. something around the
> $0.50 price mark? And can you tell me a compiler vendor? C compilers
> are available for both these devices. Therefore most embedded
> developers (who are not in the military market and where cost is the
> greatest issue) cannot choose the language they develop in.

Already answered.

> Nit-picking. Fine distinctions. As I said before, most embedded
> development IS doen in C, so that should be reflected in the book. The
> fact that I want to show readers that other languages exist, and are
> better for certain applications does not mean that I have to be an
> expert in, or even know those other languages, especially when there
> are so many very helpful posters to this thread that have made useful
> suggestions.

Fine distinctions are essential to SW engineering. As a SW engineer, I 
tend to carry them over to other areas, forgetting that most people are 
not SW engineers.