VAX/VMS Software Language and Tools Handbook

This document serves as the VAX/VMS Software Language and Tools Handbook, a comprehensive reference guide to Digital's software development products within the VAX/VMS environment. It outlines a vast array of integrated tools and services designed to enhance productivity across the entire software development lifecycle.

The handbook is structured into several chapters covering key aspects:

• The VAX/VMS Software Development Environment: Introduces the core components, including the VMS Operating System, VMS Services (Digital Command Language, Record Management Services, Runtime Library, System Services), and fundamental program development utilities (text editors, debugger, linker, librarian, sort/merge).
• VAX Program Development Productivity Tools: Details specialized tools like VAX DEC/CMS for code management, VAX DEC/MMS for module management, VAX DEC/Shell for a UNIX-like command environment, VAX DEC/Test Manager for automated regression testing, the VAX Language-Sensitive Editor for language-aware coding, VAX Performance and Coverage Analyzer for optimizing and testing code, and VAX GKS for device-independent graphics applications.
• VAX Programming Languages: Provides in-depth information on over a dozen high-level programming languages supported by VAX/VMS, such as Ada, APL, BASIC, BLISS-32, C, COBOL, DIBOL, DSM, FORTRAN, LISP, PASCAL, PL/I, and RPG II. It highlights their features, benefits, and typical applications.
• VAX Program Migration and Cross-Development Tools: Describes optional software products like VAXELN Toolkit, VAX-11 RSX, and MicroPower/Pascal-VMS, which enable cross-development for other Digital systems or migration of existing applications.
• Language and Tool Integration: Illustrates how all these languages, tools, and services are integrated to streamline every phase of the software development process—from business and risk analysis, through design, implementation, and qualification, to volume production, maintenance, and evolution—to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

The document emphasizes Digital's commitment to providing a cohesive and powerful environment for software engineers to manage complexity, build reliable code, and achieve high productivity in developing and maintaining applications.