Why a subset?

Some believe that the full language can not possibly be implemented in a
cross-compiler for such (a) chip(s).  Well, why not port gnat/gcc to the
chip first, and find out if compiled code can "fit" and run?  THEN if it
doesn't, think about what to leave out.

In the case of gnat, isn't it true that most of the run-time is in Ada
and only linked if needed?  So the documentation MIGHT end up saying
"Can compile full Ada, but if you use features A, B, C, ... then your
program won't fit in ..."

Why _assume_ something is impossible when you have the opportunity to
_prove_ it? (With the possibility of being pleasantly surprised along the
way.)

From the marketing viewpoint, which do you think will sell better:

1. "MyCo's "Tiny Ada" has been carefully crafted to exclude constructs
    that will not fit on the 5097 control system."
2. "OurCo's Ada compiler supports the full language, although users
   cross-compiling to the 5097 CS will have to avoid certain features
   via pragma Restrictions."
3. "Wizards, Inc. used our tremendous expertise in these systems to
   design out features that are unsupportable.  Don't buy MyCo or OurCo
   because their compiler can't possibly work.  Wizard Ada will be
   available Real Soon Now..."

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W. Wesley Groleau (Wes)                                Office: 219-429-4923
Hughes Defense Communications (MS 10-40)                 Home: 219-471-7206
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