Compiler Design /Construction | Module 6: Run-time Support - The Engine of Execution by Prakhar Chauhan | Learn Smarter
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Module 6: Run-time Support - The Engine of Execution

The chapter elaborates on the execution phase of a program, focusing on run-time support, which includes mechanisms for memory management, function calling, and the dynamics of parameter passing. It outlines various methods of parameter transmission: pass by value, pass by reference, and pass by name, while also detailing how activation records and stack allocation play a crucial role in function execution management. Furthermore, it explains the complex orchestration behind a function call and return process, emphasizing the significance of activation records and the stack in modern programming.

Sections

  • 6

    Run-Time Support - The Engine Of Execution

    Run-time support facilitates the execution of a program by managing memory and function calls after compilation.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.1

    Parameter Passing: The Communication Channels Of Functions

    This section explores the different methods of parameter passing in programming, highlighting how data is transmitted between functions.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.1.1

    Pass By Value (The Immutability Of A Copy)

    This section explains the concept of pass by value in programming, detailing how parameters are copied and the implications for data integrity and function behavior.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.1.2

    Pass By Reference (The Direct Access/alias)

    Pass by reference enables functions to access the original data by providing a reference to it, allowing for direct modification.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.1.3

    Pass By Name (The 'macro-Like' Substitution - Historical Context)

    This section discusses the 'pass by name' parameter passing mechanism, highlighting its historical context and distinguishing features.

    Learning

  • 6.2

    Activation Records: The Ephemeral Function Contexts

    Activation records, or stack frames, are essential for managing function calls in programming, providing a dedicated memory space for function execution.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.2.1

    Detailed Breakdown Of Typical Contents Within An Activation Record

    The activation record (AR) contains essential data structures for managing function calls, including parameters, return addresses, and local variables.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.3

    Allocation Of Activation Records: Memory Management Strategies

    This section discusses strategies for allocating activation records, focusing on stack and static allocation and their impact on program execution and memory management.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.3.1

    Stack Allocation (Automatic/dynamic Allocation - The Workhorse)

    This section discusses stack allocation, the predominant method for managing activation records in programming languages, highlighting its characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.3.2

    Static Allocation (Fixed Memory Layout - Historical/specific Use Cases)

    Static allocation assigns fixed memory locations at compile-time, useful for specific cases like global variables, but limits dynamic memory usage.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.4

    The Dance Of A Function Call: Precise Code Generation

    This section covers the complex process of function calls and returns, detailing how compilers generate precise code for managing function execution.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.4.1

    Allocating Offsets To Variables Within An Activation Record

    This section discusses how the compiler allocates offsets for parameters and local variables within an activation record during runtime to facilitate efficient function calls.

    Learning Practice

  • 6.4.2

    Generating Code For Function Flow (The Four Stages)

    This section details the intricate process by which the compiler generates machine instructions for invoking and returning from functions, focusing on four essential stages.

    Learning Practice

References

Untitled document (31).pdf

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • Run-time support is essenti...
  • Parameter passing methods c...
  • Activation records are crit...

Final Test

Revision Tests