Test Suites
2 messages in this thread
A test suite is a series of programs/tests that can be run to give the
compiler a "work out". The Plum/Hall test suite specifically tests ANSI
compliance in both the libraries and the compiler itself through two
methods: a set of static programs that you have to compile/link, and a
'stress-test' generation program. The static programs basically at run
time give messages indicating whether the program is behaving the way an
ANSI compiled-program would be. The stress test is a special program that
generates random complex-expressions which test can really push a compiler
to its limits in certain areas. We use the Plum/Hall stuff here, and the
stress testing caught a few nasty problems before the 5.0 release.
However, as you say, no test suite can test everything, and the Plum Hall
suite leaves _lots_ of areas untested. But then, that's why God created
beta testers 😎
-Mike
Mike:
That's neat, esp. the idea of the "stress test" program. I know how to
make it work. The people at SAS will write one for the Aztec, and vice
versa. Scoring will be made public, and boy, can I think of a few prizes
for the winners…. 😎 <evil leer>
Regards Tom