CS304: Compilers

The verification and validation (V&V) of a compiler consists of the V&V of its parts: scanner or lexical analyzer, syntax analyzer, semantic analyzer, Intermediate Code Generator, Intermediate Code Optimizer, Code Generator, and Code Optimizer. See the V&V notes for each of these. V&V is based on a careful plan, a well-defined compiler process (including version control or more extensive configuration control, and efficient and effective documentation), peer reviews, measurements, (including defect analysis), component tests, formal proofs, and integration tests. It can utilize known correct tools, such as parser generators, code generation templates, and other compilers and compiler parts. In addition, a formal certification of the compiler can be done by an independent organization.

Remember that verification pertains to correctness, which means satisfaction of specifications; and validation pertains to user needs, which means satisfaction of user operational requirements. Verification addresses, for example, correctness of results of scanning, semantic analysis, code generation, and code optimization. Validation includes meeting operational, functional, performance, and physical requirements for processing time and memory space, and also, the "ilities" -- reliability, availability, maintainability, and usability.

V&V depends on the complications of the source and target programming languages, the intended use of the compiler, number of front ends to back ends, available tools, run-time environments and machine architecture, and the system that it will interface with.

Finally, certification of a compiler -- i.e., compliance to a standard -- may be necessary for safety or security of critical programs.

Completing this unit should take you approximately 1 hour.