Debugging aids for hybrid- computer programmers

Abstract

We discuss here proposals for two new debugging aids for hybrid-computer programmers. For digital programs, "relevant" post-mortem dumps have long been advocated .1 We propose extending this philoso phy to analog dumps. We describe means of making selective dumps via analysis of the topological structure of analog programs. We also propose a novel analog static-check procedure which takes advantage of the greater computational facilities afforded by a digital computer to solve algebraic equations. The analog-dump and static-check methods recommended here, at worst, help hybrid programmers with their debugging efforts by automating certain common tac tics. Many errors can thereby be automatically detected and precisely located. In conclusion, we suggest how correction of these errors can be auto mated to some extent.