System Integration and Testing with Microprocessors-- 11. Software Aspects

The programming and machine language of microprocessors are compared to those of minicomputers. It is shown that microprocessor software usually lacks advanced programming aides. The lack of these programmting aides hinder effective program development on systems that employ microprocessors. The conventional method of microprocessor program development on some large host computer or time sharinlg facility is examined. The drawbacks of using microprocesor simulators on large computers are demonstrated. The main drawbacks are expensive operation and inflexibility.