g - A compact language for real-time graphics

Abstract

We propose a medium level C-based language for computer graphics applications. The main objective is to provide real-time graphics (interactive video), hence the emphasis in the language design is on optimal speed of the machine code (to minimize system overheads) and on the compactness of the g code (so that no manuals are necessary). The language coexists and fully cooperates with C. The modular structure of the g data sector admits various programming models (sequential/concurrent, local/network extended). Portable design of the g compiler allows for various graphics configurations with adjustable speed/portability ratio. The compiler output is machine-independent "machine" code, to be explicitly interpreted on a given graphics device. The g programming environment consists of a g compiler (written in C), a portable (but slow) g interpreter (written in C) and a set of optimized interpreters for individual machines/devices (written in assembly).

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