Review of "SEMINAR: Fourth Generation Languages on Personal Computers, National Computer Conference."

Abstract

Some will feel that better illustrations should have bee n included. There is comparatively little in the way of photographs of equipment or installations. However, the tex t includes a great deal of line drawings which are very helpfu l in supporting the concepts in the text narrative. Sunman' : While the material is very readable, it provides a descriptive overview of communications technology fro m an unusually wide perspective. Topics are not considered i n depth. A good glossary of communications terms and concepts is included. Recommended reading for beginners an d those who need to update themselves in the field. VAX FORTRAN is designed for the applications programmer of that organization using the Digital Equipmen t Corporation's (DEC) VAX computer system. The materia l is highly specific and involved with the actual programmin g procedure and the use of the FORTRAN language in thi s process. For the non-programming manager, this boo k appears too complex and involved. The material provides a complete instruction set for those interested in learning to program in FORTRAN on th e VAX machine under the VMS operating system. Th e information contained concerning the FORTRAN language can be extended for use on other hardware, as long a s the programmer is aware of the differences in operatin g systems. VAX FORTRAN may be considered too detailed in its presentation for those wishing just a basic understanding of the subject while leaving the "nitty-gritty " work fo r someone else. In the same manner, the book does not include a presentation on the strengths and limitations of th e programming language. For the beginning applications programmers, this boo k contains a well structured presentation of the basic idea s involved in what is termed "structured programming ." I n addition to basic programming practices and FORTRA N syntax, the text contains a tutorial on the VAX operatin g system and screen editing system in the appendix. The instructional format is termed "teaching by example," whic h includes many small programs illustrating the major point s of each section. Programming problems at the end of eac h chapter provide an opportunity to st ress concepts introduced and include a forum for review of old ideas. Anothe r key presentation is the identification and practice of th e logical steps of the programming process. VAX FORTRAN is organized in a series of increasingl y difficult …