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 Solution for Mid-Sized Services - Award-winning ERP solution. Fully integrated, web-based system. Streamline processes with single solution. Download Virtual Tour and White Papers. ERP Software - Get a free demo CD of our manufacturers ERP software. Includes CRM, EDI and quality management systems integration. Money back guarantee. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) - Improve your ROI from J.D. Edwards, PeopleSoft and Oracle. All aspects from CNC, Development, HR Pay - Data Collection and Job Placement. 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 M1 ERP Software - ERP Solutions for growing manufacturers. Software provides for total management and integration of quoting, orders, shipping, accounting and more. ERP Software Financing - We Lease ERP and other types of software. Simple one page application & bonus cash can be added to your lease. Call now for a free credit appraisal. On-Demand ERP Software - Streamline Collaboration & Manage Multiple Projects & Tasks With On-Demand Collaborative ERP Software. Learn More Now. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) - Developer of ERP and host connectivity software products for the automatic identification and data collection (AIDC) marketplace. ERP Software Directory - Compare ERP software using Capterra's free, comprehensive directory.	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: Software 4 Store Offers Barcode Scanners 35 Model Matches Magazine and Newspaper Subscriptions 2 Model Matches Books 39 Model Matches