source code Last modified: Monday, October 15, 2007
Program instructions in their original form. The word source differentiates code from various other forms that it can have (for example, object code and executable code). Initially, a programmer writes a program in a particular programming language. This form of the program is called the source program, or more generically, source code. To execute the program, however, the programmer must translate it into machine language, the language that the computer understands. The first step of this translation process is usually performed by a utility called a compiler. The compiler translates the source code into a form called object code. Sometimes the object code is the same as machine code; sometimes it needs to be translated into machine language by a utility called an assembler. Source code is the only format that is readable by humans. When you purchase programs, you usually receive them in their machine-language format. This means that you can execute them directly, but you cannot read or modify them. Some software manufacturers provide source code, but this is useful only if you are an experienced programmer.
•E-mail this definition to a colleague• Sponsored listings ERP Software Applications - Locate enterprise resource planning software options and vendors. Use online tools to find the right ERP software for your business. Hire Rockstar osCommerce Freelancers - Hire Certified osCommerce Ninjas at $10-$50/hour. Post a job and interview candidates for free today. Ecommerce Software - Offers integrated software solutions for delivering complex product data on the Web, including online catalog creation and management capabilities. For internet.com pages about source code . Also check out the following links! Developer.com  Contains resources, tools, articles, discussion areas, and events of interest to Internet/intranet developers. Directories include: ActiveX, Java, JavaBeans, JavaScript, Microsoft and .NET, open source and VRML. Webopedia's "Did You Know...?" Section  Use this Webopedia knowledge section for an in-depth overview of specific technologies and occurrences in the areas of Computer Science, The Internet, and Computer Hardware and Software. Webopedia's Quick Reference Section  Use this Webopedia reference section for information on common Internet and computer facts and occurrences. Sponsored listings Ecommerce - Ecommerce solutions from Onshore Technology. We offer a cost-effective yet risk-averse solution to offshore outsourcing. Call now! ERP Software Directory - Compare ERP software using Capterra's free, comprehensive directory. Wells Fargo Payment Gateway - Compatible payment gateways for your Merchant Account. Apply online or learn more. ERP Software OpenPro Open Source Web Based - Offers a complete web-based, open source LAMP ERP accounting system with financials, supply chain, manufacturing, CRM and ecommerce features. ERP Software - Find Erp Source Code Solutions and Compare prices at Shopica.com. Search products and stores before making a purchase. Start Now!	Compiling, Binding and Linking assembler break-even point build code compiler CVS editor fork KLOC machine language object code program programming language refactoring SOA software entropy Give Us Your Feedback Shopping source code Products Compare Products,Prices and Stores Shop by Category: Magazine and Newspaper Subscriptions 2 Model Matches Software 0 Store Offers Nutrition 34 Store Offers Tools and Accessories 3 Store Offers Books 57 Model Matches