[MRFBUP18]

March 3, 2009, I’m in the middle of writing a series of programs that a computerized mechanism/chip can describe (in detail) what those instructions are, for that specific device to perform. Being computer illiterate, I need those functions described, using my everyday language. Will someone, please, respond so that our discussion will continue? Sincerely, Louie

[Scleros]

I need those functions described, using my everyday language. Will someone, please, respond so that our discussion will continue?

? I'll attempt to respond, but first I'll need your question rephrased in my everyday language that I can understand. :) Seriously, I don't understand what you are asking for.

In the meantime, as a starting point to build on, what follows is a general gist of how computers are typically programmed/software is created. First a programming language is chosen. Some common ones are BASIC, C/C++/C# and JAVA. Then using the logical constructs of the language, a sequence of steps are defined, a program, that when executed by the computer, the desired functionality is achieved. Once the program is crafted, all the program statements (code) are compiled or interpreted by utility software called a compiler or interpreter. The compiler/interpreter translates the human readable program into machine instructions for the target processor, such as an Intel Pentium, that will be used to execute the program. The output usually is a file, such as NOTEPAD.EXE, that can be loaded into the computer's memory, usually by an operating system, and executed by the processor.

Functions, in the context of a programming language, are a series of statements that, well, perform a function and can be logically grouped and referred to within the program as a unit. For instance, if while writing a program, it was noticed that the same sequence of statements was being repeated over and over again throughout the program, those statements could be grouped as a function and then when needed called from anywhere else in the program.

For an example of C and Perl code before it is compiled/interpreted, see Wikipedia - "Hello World".

[ScottGem]

I have to agree that your question doesn't provide enough info to give a good answer. I am, however going to provide some additnal info that may help you correctly formulate your question.

A computer is basically a device that is composed of a bunch of switches that are either on or off. The on/off state is represented by the 0s and 1s of the binary numbering system. A computer program sets these switches on and off depending on what it is required for the computer to do.

A computer programming language allows the programmer to create code at a higher level the then setting the switches on and off directly. For example the following statement:

If Age > 17 Then
Agestatus = "Adult"
Else
Agestatus = "Minor"
End If

Checks a person's age and marks their status as Minor or Adult.

Now, can you better explain what you are doing and what help you need doing it?

[Perito]

It sounds like you're trying to write some sort of compiler. This isn't a job for a computer illiterate. It can take years to perfect those skills.