Computers Communicate Through Languages

Computers Communicate Through Languages

by Praveen C Galagali

The sole purpose of language is to help people communicate. So how does a computer machine communicate with its web browser and applications? Do they have just one language or many languages to facilitate their functioning?

Programming languages

Programming is the most important aspect of computer languages & helps in defining them. There are two types of programming languages:

I) Procedure-oriented programming: Here a problem is broken into parts and sub-parts. These parts and sub-parts are called procedures. Procedures are controlled by one main program that works to ensure that each procedure carries out its functions properly. Languages that work in this type of programming include COBOL, FORTRAN, C etc.

ii) Object-oriented programming: In this type, a programmer defines the task that can be undertaken. As the name suggest, it is aimed at achieving a particular objective. Languages that work on this type of programming are C++, Java, PHP etcTo be an efficient programmer, one has to choose the right institute, which imparts training in the specified area. They can choose to be a specialist rather than trying to grasp education for every field. Various IT institutes and schools offer specialised courses related to computer programming & languages, keeping in mind the industry requirements. Computer programming languages like Java, JavaScript, SQL, ColdFusion, HTML etc are some of the most common courses available for beginners. However, since these are technical subjects and require special training, learning from a professional & reputed institute is recommended.

Classification of computer languages:

Computer languages are usually divided into various generations based on their functionalities.

First generation languages: Also known as 1GL, they contain all instructions in a code of 0 and 1, which is the language that the computer understands. The binary code was very effective in the initial stages and is still used. Because of its compatibility with the machines, it is popularly known as machine language.

Second generation languages: They are known as 2GL. This was developed to make it user-friendly for the programmers as they were the ones making the code for the machine. Here, the words or mnemonics used by the programmer was understood only by them & not the machine. So to perform this action, it was translated to the machine language and then used to perform the specified action. It was able to reduce time and processing details as compared to 1GL. This type of language is also known as assembly language.

Third generation language: Also known as 3GL or high level languages, these dealt with increased level of words, codes and commands used for programming. Here, most of the words used were understandable by the programmer, making it easier for a common person to understand the language. The syntax of these languages were pretty simple and ensured the command could be developed even by an amateur, making it easier to inspire a new generation of people to take up programming as a career. Languages like JAVA, C, C++ etc are a part of this generation.

Fourth generation languages: This generation of languages (4GL) used the base set up by the previous generations.

It ensured reduction in cost and time consumed to program a code. This phase works under major influence from the 3GL. SQL and ColdFusion, among others, are a part of this era.

Fifth generation languages: Also known as 5GL, this type of language focuses on the problem encountered in the code and tries to solve it without the help of the programmer. Giving it artificial intelligence like behaviour and then testing the results would mean that the program would be able to heal itself if a problem arises after a code is written. This lessens the work of the programmer who does not need to re-write the whole code. 5GL is still in the experimentation phase & has a long way to go.The constant evolution of computer languages has contributed to advancement of technology, making it more user-friendly.