Compilers and Interpreters in Computer

Compilers

• Besides the application software and the system software, there is a third kind of software called the compiler software.
• Compiler is a system program that translates source code (user written program) into object code (binary form).
• The whole source code file is compiled in one go and a complete.
• This means that the program can only be executed once the translation is complete.
• It is 5-25 times faster than an interpreter.
• Ex- C & C++ are most popular compiled language.

Interpreter

Translate the high level language and execute the instruction before passing on to the next instruction.

• An Interpreter is contrast to a compiler, analyzes & executes the source code line- by – line without looking at the entire program.
• First it translates & executes the first line then it moves to the next line of the source code & repeats the process.
• It is a slow process.
• It is used in FORTRAN program.
• Ex- JavaScript & VBScript are interpreted language.