Introduction to C++

Jul 10, 2024

Introduction to C++

Overview

  • C++ is a general-purpose, high-level, compiler-based, and object-oriented programming language.
  • Key characteristics:
    • General-purpose: Used for various types of software development
    • High-level: Abstracted from machine language
    • Compiler-based: Requires a compiler to convert to machine code
    • Object-oriented: Supports encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism

C++ as a General-Purpose Language

  • General-purpose: Can be used to design different types of software
  • Examples of software that can be designed using C++:
    • Operating Systems: DOS, Windows, Unix
    • Editors: Notepad, WordPad, MS Office, Edit Plus
    • Commercial Applications: Banking programs, Supermarkets, Hotel management
    • Database Applications: Oracle, SQL Server, MySQL
    • Translators: Compilers, Interpreters, Assemblers
    • Device Drivers: Keyboard, Printer, Mouse drivers
    • PC and Mobile Games: Snake, Super Mario, Contra
    • Protocols: HTTP, FTP, Bluetooth Transfer

Translators

  • Definition: Convert source code to machine code
  • Types of Translators:
    • Compiler: Converts high-level language to machine code (used in C++)
    • Interpreter: Also converts high-level language to machine code
    • Assembler: Converts low-level language to machine code
  • Translation Process:
    • Convert user input (source code) to machine-understandable code (object code)
    • Necessary because computers understand binary code, not human languages

Device Drivers

  • Definition: Software that allows hardware devices to communicate with the operating system
  • Examples: Printer drivers, USB drivers

Games Development

  • C++ is used to develop both PC and mobile games
  • Examples include Snake, Super Mario, and Contra

Protocols Design

  • Definition: Set of rules for data transfer
  • Examples: HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol), FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
  • Telecom Protocols: 90% designed using C++

High-Level Programming Language

  • Program: Set of instructions
  • Software: Collection of programs; a digital and automated process
  • Types of Software:
    • System Software: Operating Systems, Device Drivers, Translators
    • Application Software: Performs specific tasks like media playing, photo editing, accounting

System Software vs Application Software

  • System Software:
    • Essential for running hardware and basic functionalities
    • Examples: Operating systems, device drivers
  • Application Software:
    • Designed to perform specific tasks
    • Examples: Tally for accounting, VLC for media, Photoshop for image editing
  • Relationship: Application software needs system software to function properly