The design of an interactive compiler for optimizing microprograms

Microprogramming has traditionally been done in assembly language because of the perceived need for fast execution; compiler technology does not yet exist for discovering and performing many of the clever tricks of an experienced microprogrammer. Unfortunately, programming at the machine-instruction level is both tedious and error-prone. A possible compromise between these two approaches is that of an interactive compiler, where the programmer guides the crafting of critical data structures and sections of code, while the compiler ensures that the resulting code has the same semantics as the original program, generates code where speed is not critical, and performs bookkeeping tasks. We are in the process of implementing a prototype of such a system. This paper describes the system being developed and discusses some of the key design issues.