A comment on the presentation and testing of CALGO codes and a remark on algorithm 639: To integrate some infinite oscillating tails

ABSTRACT

We report on a number of coding problems that occur frequently in published CALGO software and are still appearing in new algorithm submissions. Using Algorithm 639 as an extended example, we describe how these types of faults may be almost entirely eliminated using available commercial compilers and software tools. We consider the levels of testing required to instil confidence that code performs reliably. Finally, we look at how the source code may be re-engineered, and thus made more maintainable, by taking account of advances in hardware and language development.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
      D.2.5 Testing and Debugging

Additional Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
      D.2.7 Distribution, Maintenance, and Enhancement

  G. Mathematics of Computing
  G.4 MATHEMATICAL SOFTWARE

General Terms:
Algorithms

Keywords:
Debugging, Fortran, software tools, testing