Character-based terminals/emulators continue to be the way users
typically interact with
many legacy applications; however, many of these applications rely on a
specific type of
terminal. Programmers have taken advantage of specific
terminal capabilities by inserting terminal
command sequences directly into their programs. As a result, many
applications
are dependent on a particular brand/model of character terminal.
Modern compilers and Open Systems support the concept of terminal
independence, which allows
users to interact with the application, using the terminal or emulator of their
choice. In order to achieve terminal independence, all terminal command
sequences must be replaced with new code that emulates the functionality
of each terminal command. This identification process may require that a
programmer deal with the complexity of
analyzing code in hundreds or thousands of files.
Consider some of the issues regarding terminal command sequences:
- they may be hard coded directly in procedure code
- they may be
strung together using several statements
- they may be stored in multiple variables
- they may be composed of characters/values that are not
unique to terminal commands
Consistently and accurately replacing
terminal command sequences is definitely a case where automation can outperform a
programmer. Since Datatek's tools use a compiler's point of view, source
code can be programmatically scanned and modified, based on specific
criteria, and terminal command sequences can be replaced with the
correct emulation code
where required.
In a fraction of the time, Datatek's tools can
do what can take programmers days, weeks, or even months to accomplish,
saving you time and money.
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| Major Benefits |
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Quick Turnaround Time |
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Consistent Programming Style |
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Reliable Modifications |
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Flexible Modification Cycle |
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Cost Effective |
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