An introduction to the specification and implementation of modern compilers. Topics covered include lexical scanning, parsing, type checking, code generation and translation, dataflow analysis and optimizations, and run-time support for modern programming languages. As part of the course, students will build a working compiler for an object-oriented language which is a simplified version of Java.
Computer Science 312, 314. The practicum (CS 413) is a required co-requisite. You may not take CS 412 without taking CS 413 too. The reason for this is that the group project is part of the grade for both 412 and 413. Familiarity with programming in Java is also expected.
Optional books:
Copies of these books will be on reserve in the Engineering library.
There are four written homework assignments. They must be done on an individual basis.
The compiler project is divided up into six programming assignments that are due at various points throughout the term. Compiler projects will be performed by groups of three or four students. Groups will be created by the course staff, but taking into account student preferences. The same groups will be maintained throughout the semester if possible.
Homework and programming assignments will be accepted up to 4 days late, but at a penalty. When assignments are turned in late, the penalty increases by 10% each day: 10% for one day late, 20% for two days late, 30% for 3 days late, 40% for 4 days late, etc. Homework assignments are due at the beginning of class on the due date. The files associated with programming assignments must be turned in electronically on the due date; the write-ups for the programming assignments are due in class the following day.
Except in unusual circumstances, you will receive the same grade in CS 412 and CS 413 and all members of a group will receive the same grade on programming assignments. Exceptions to these rules are dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
The breakdown of points per assignment is shown below. This is a tentative point breakdown and may change slightly during the semester.
| Exams: 35% | Prelim 1 | 16 |
| Prelim 2 | 16 | |
| Quizzes | 3 | |
| Homeworks: 20% | Homework 1 | 5 |
| Homework 2 | 5 | |
| Homework 3 | 5 | |
| Homework 4 | 5 | |
| Project: 45% | Programming assignment 1 | 5 |
| Programming assignment 2 | 9 | |
| Programming assignment 3 | 9 | |
| Programming assignment 4 | 9 | |
| Programming assignment 5 | 9 | |
| Project Demo | 4 | |
| Total | 100 | |
The preliminary exams will cover material from the lectures. The prelims will be announced later, and both will be closed-book exams. Check out the exam dates in advance and let the course staff know if you have conflicts with these dates. There will be no final exam.