SDL, LANGUAGE, Data Structure/Interface Definition Language SDL is both a data structure and interface definition language and a utility/compiler to convert those definitions into language output for a number of different languages. This allows a single source definition of a data structure, for example, while supporting multiple language representations of that data structure. SDL consists of a front-end and numerous language back-ends. The front-end generates an intermediate language which is interpreted by the back-ends. It is straightforward to create back-ends for new languages, following the example of an existing back end. When the SDL/LANGUAGE qualifier is used, the specified language name is used to search for the back-end image. Note that SDL sources are provided in the [.SRC] directory, including build and option files as well as needed include files. Since the OpenVMS operating system itself is written in multiple languages which share many of the same data structures, SDL is used to define the data structure once and then produce output for the respective languages which require access to that structure definition. The most recent "formal" documentation describes VAX SDL V3.2. That documentation is available on this kit. There have been a number of bug fixes made to SDL for Alpha which are included in this kit. To use this SDL, copy all the images into a particular directory, such as DAD$FREEWARE:[SDL], and create a local command file such as the following: To use the Alpha SDL images: $ AXP_NATIVE == 1 $ AXP_CROSS == 0 $ DEFINE EVMS$BUILD_TOOLS DAD$FREEWARE:[SDL.NATIVE], SYS$LIBRARY $ @EVMS$BUILD_TOOLS:SDL "" To use the VAX SDL images: $ AXP_NATIVE == 0 $ AXP_CROSS == 1 $ DEFINE EVMS$BUILD_TOOLS DAD$FREEWARE:[SDL.CROSS], SYS$LIBRARY $ @EVMS$BUILD_TOOLS:SDL ""