DECMIGRATE SPD.PDF

DECmigrate Version 1.1A for OpenVMS AXP Systems (SPD 39.44.00) is a software product designed to translate existing OpenVMS VAX binary executable files and shareable images into optimized OpenVMS AXP code. It functions like a compiler but takes VAX binaries as input, without requiring access to the original source code or user interaction with internal translation processes.

Key features include:

• Translating VAX user-mode executables and shareable images to their AXP equivalents.
• Identifying dependencies on other shareable images that may also need translation or recompilation.
• Highlighting non-portable code that might require rewriting for AXP systems.
• Producing optimized Alpha AXP code (not interpreted or emulated VAX code), with potential for performance improvements through successive translations using automatic feedback.
• Allowing translated VAX images to be combined with natively compiled OpenVMS AXP images.
• Bundling run-time support with OpenVMS AXP, enabling software developers to distribute translated products even to customers who have not purchased DECmigrate.

Translated programs are expected to perform comparably to their VAX counterparts but generally slower than natively recompiled applications.

DECmigrate cannot translate programs that:

• Are non-functional or linked on VMS versions prior to 4.0.
• Use undocumented operating system interfaces, user-written system services, fixed-address linking, system memory references, privileged instructions, or vector instructions.
• Were written in Ada.
• Depend on specific VAX architecture features (e.g., 512-byte page granularity).
• Are certain types of shareable images or untranslated/unrecompiled shareable images.
• Include specific programming practices like exception handlers that rely on program counter/PSL values, memory-searching for VAX instructions, or device drivers.
• Are excessively large, potentially exceeding available memory after translation.

Hardware and Software Requirements:

• Processors: Alpha AXP systems (DEC 3000, 4000, 7000, 10000 series).
• Disk Space: 11.5 MB for installation, 5.2 MB for permanent use.
• Memory: Minimum 8MB for standalone DECwindows environments.
• Software: OpenVMS AXP Operating System, and DECwindows Motif for OpenVMS AXP for workstation use.

The product is distributed on CD-ROM, available as part of the AXP Operating System Consolidated Software Distribution or sold separately. Licensing is provided under Digital's standard terms, supporting the License Management Facility on an Unlimited System Use basis.