There are a wealth of computer languages available to the Commodore 64 or 128 user. There is a language for just about any need a computerest my have. One may wonder why bother, since most tasks can be done with basic. While this is true, many types of programming can be done faster and more efficiently with another language. In this article, we will look briefly at some of the more common computer languages available for the Commodore machine.
BASIC is the logical starting point. Since it is built into the machine, BASIC starts off with two major advantages. One, you do not have to go buy it, and secondly you do not have to boot it in. Since BASIC, at least in the Commodore, is interpreted, it lacks the speed of compiled languages. In many cases however, speed is not a problem. BASIC's ease of use often outways the disadvantage of speed. For many everyday tasks, BASIC will suit the needs.
ASSEMBLY language is often the next step for the BASIC programmer. It is very fast, and not nearly as difficult to learn as it seems. It does take a lot of programming to do a simple task however, and unless speed is of the essence, often is best when used in conjunction with a higher level language. There are many assembler programs, both public domain and commercial. For the beginner, Jim Butterfield's book "Machine Language for the Commodore 64 and other Commodore computers" is a good place to start.
Pascal is a high level, modular consruction type language. It is a derivative of ALGOL, and is very simple to learn. Most Pascals are compiled, and as such are faster then their basic counterparts. The computerist looking for a second language should give Pascal a try. Among the commercial Pascal programs, Abacus Software markets both a 64 and a 128 version.
Pilot is a language designed for educaters. It is a high level language that uses English like commands. Commodore released a commercial Pilot program that can be picked up at some mail order houses, often at under $20.
Comal is a sort of BASIC, Pascal, LOGO, combination. It is available in several forms form the Comal User Group in Madison, Wisconsin. The beginners version, Comal 0.14 can often be found in user groups and may be distributed freely. Most reference books are also found primarily through the user group.
C is one of the most portable as well as powerful languages available. Some of the most sophisticated programs available, such as LOTUS 1-2-3 were written in C. Although there are a number of beginner books available on C, Computes "From Basic to C" is one of the easier to follow. C is not an easy language to learn, but is probably one of the most important languages available. Abacus markets a Super C program for both the 64 and the 128. Spinnaker also makes an excellent Power C program with both 64 and 128 versions on unprotected disks included.
There are a number of other languages available for the Commodore, such as lisp, a language often used in artificial intelligence, and Forth, probably the oddest language of the dozen or so I have dabbled in. Every computerist should consider learning one or two. There is nothing in the computer field more powerful or rewarding than knowledge.
