Translator (computing)
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A Translator is a computer program that translates one programming language instruction(s) into another programing language instruction(s) without the loss of original meaning. OR, the translator will translate X language and produce X’ language. Where X is the MEANING and ‘(DASH) is the language. In some advanced translator will even change the logic (not meaning) or will simplify the logic without loosing the essence.
[edit] Types
If the translator translates a high level language into an assembly or machine language it is called a compiler. Examples include Ada, ALGOL, BASIC, COBOL, FORTRAN, PL/I, C/C++.
If the translator translates a high level language into an intermediate code which will be immediately executed it is called interpreter. Examples include APL, ASP, CYBOL, LISP, SmallTalk and PERL.
If the translator translates target/machine code to source language it is called a Decompiler. Example: DCC, Boomerang Decompilers and Reverse Engineering Compiler (REC).
If the translator translates source language to assembly language such kind of translator is called assembler. Examples include MASM, TASM, NASM and FASM.
If the translator translates assembly into high level language such kind of translator is called Disassembler. Examples include gdb, IDA Pro and OllyDbg.
