The Use of High Order Languages in Microprocessor-Based Systems

A microprocessor-based flight control system has been built around the U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle Dual Control Augmentation System and has been successfully flight tested. The microprocessors are programmed using the Pascal high order language. It is widely agreed that high order languages have the potential for reducing software life cycle costs through increased programmer productivity. To realize the productivity gains, however, the campiler must be reasonably efficient. The productivity gains and the level of efficiency actually achieved through the use of Pascal are summarized. On-going activity with Ada is briefly discussed.