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Second-generation programming language

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Second-generation programming language (2GL) is a generational way to categorize assembly languages.[1][2]

The term was coined to provide a distinction from higher level third-generation programming languages (3GL) such as COBOL and earlier first-generation programming language (machine code languages).[citation needed]

Second-generation programming language

Further information: Assembly language

Second-generation programming languages have the following properties:

  • Lines within a program respond directly to processor commands, essentially acting as a mnemonic device overlaying a first generation programming language.
  • The code can be read and written by a programmer. To run on a computer it must be converted into a machine readable form, a process called assembly.
  • The language is specific to a particular processor family and environment. [2]

Second-generation languages are sometimes used for parts of kernels and device drivers, and are sometimes used in video games, graphics programs, and other intensive programs.[1]

In most modern usage, second generation languages are almost nowhere to be found. Second generation languages may have their advantages, but the requirement for a programmer to think in terms of individual processor instructions, and manage all of the articular details of memory and other hardware related issues, combined with the machine specificity of the languages have lead to their decline. The vast majority of programs are written in a Third-generation programming language or a Fourth-generation programming language. As well written C code can often be as fast or even faster as assembly[2][3]

Second generation languages are perhaps most significant in their place in computing history. for a long time, Second generation assembly languages where the only good option for development for many machines, such as the NES or the Commodore 64.[4][5]

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References

  1. ^ a b "Computer Hope, Generation languages"
  2. ^ a b c Brookshear, J. Glenn. Computer science : an overview (11th ed.). Addison-Wesley. pp. 240–241. ISBN 0-13-256903-5.
  3. ^ Walls, Colin. "Why C is faster than assembly". Mentor, a Sieman's Buisness. Mentor Inc. Retrieved 11 June 2019.
  4. ^ Commodore corporation. "C64 programmer's reference" (PDF). Commodore corporation. Retrieved 11 June 2019.
  5. ^ Wikibooks contributors. "NES assembly". Wikibooks: NES Assembly. Retrieved 11 June 2019. {{cite web}}: |author1= has generic name (help)
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