Date   : Thu, 26 Nov 1987 12:29:30 GMT
From   : MA18@SYSE.SALFORD.AC.UK
Subject: Z80 Modula-2

This is my first attempt to contribute to the CPM info so I am not sure if
I should reply to the board or direct. To be safe I will try both and risk
annoying people.

Z80 Modula-2: I have all three of the compilers mentioned as a result of a
project I am involved with. Personally, I have used FTL a little, Turbo a
lot and the Hoshstrasser compiler not at all. This does not reflect the
qualities of the compilers - it is simply chance.

My preference for Turbo over FTL reflects the success with which I managed to
get the editor working on my machine. The Turbo one works well, the FTL one
badly. Indeed I have started using VDO when using FTL.

On the subject of code size, Turbo only generated Z80 code as an option. It
interprets an intermediate code by default. This allows one to swap speed for
space.

I read the manuals for all three compilers last night to see how the tackled
the problem of ass lang interfacing. Only the Zurich compiler will allow an
ass lang module to contain variables which can be exported and accessed by
Modula-2 modules. The other two compilers limit you to exporting procedures.
All three permit the linking of REL files with the assistance of a utility.
The Modula-2 linkers supplied don't use REL file format themselves. The FTL
compiler comes with its own Z80 assembler.

I have not tried to interface assembly code with any of these compilers, but
after reading the manual I would select the Zurich compiler as the one I
would try first.

I hope this is of some help - if it gets to you!