Report Number: CSL-TR-77-149
Institution: Stanford University, Computer Systems Laboratory
Title: Interpretive machines
Author: Iliffe, John K.
Date: June 1977
Abstract: These lectures survey attempts to apply computers directly to
high level languages using microprogrammed interpreters. The
motivation for such work is to achieve language
implementations that are more effective in some measure of
translation, execution or response to the user than would
otherwise be obtained. The implied comparison is with the
established technique of compiling into a fixed
general-purpose machine code prior to execution. It is argued
that while substantial benefits can be expected from
microprogramming it does not represent the best approach to
design when the contributing factors are analyzed in a
general system context, that is to say when wide performance
range, multiple source language, and stringent security
requirements have to be satisfied. An alternative is
suggested, using a combination of interpretation and a
primitive instruction set and providing security at the
microprogram level.
http://i.stanford.edu/pub/cstr/reports/csl/tr/77/149/CSL-TR-77-149.pdf