CPP Overview

C++ Overview

“C++ represents a statically typed, compiled, general-purpose, case-sensitive, and free-form programming language that accommodates procedural, object-oriented, and generic prog

ramming paradigms.

Positioned as a middle-level language, C++ amalgamates attributes of both high-level and low-level programming languages.

Originating in 1979 at Bell Labs in Murray Hill, New Jersey, C++ was crafted by Bjarne Stroustrup as an augmentation to the C language. Its initial name, ‘C with Classes,’ underwent a transformation in 1983 to become C++.

C++ extends beyond C, effectively making virtually any valid C program equally valid in C++.

It’s important to note that a programming language employs static typing when type checking occurs during compilation rather than runtime.

Object-Oriented Programming

C++ offers full-fledged support for object-oriented programming, encompassing the four cornerstones of object-oriented development:

• Encapsulation
• Data hiding
• Inheritance
• Polymorphism

Standard Libraries

Standard C++ consists of three fundamental components:

1. The core language, providing essential building blocks such as variables, data types, and literals.
2. The C++ Standard Library, furnishing an extensive array of functions for tasks like file manipulation and string handling.
3. The Standard Template Library (STL), equipping developers with a rich collection of methods to manipulate data structures.

The ANSI Standard

The ANSI standard strives to ensure the portability of C++, enabling code written for various compilers – whether on a Mac, UNIX system, Windows machine, or Alpha – to compile seamlessly.

Having attained stability over time, the ANSI standard enjoys endorsement from major C++ compiler manufacturers.

Learning C++

The paramount focus while learning C++ should be on grasping its foundational concepts.

Mastery of a programming language translates to enhanced programming skills: the ability to design and implement novel systems proficiently while maintaining legacy ones.

C++ accommodates diverse programming styles, whether akin to Fortran, C, Smalltalk, or other languages. Each style can effectively achieve its objectives while upholding efficiency in runtime and memory usage.

Utilization of C++

C++ finds application among a vast community of programmers spanning virtually every domain.

In contexts requiring real-time hardware-level manipulation, such as crafting device drivers, C++ enjoys extensive usage.

The language’s clarity makes it an apt choice for educational and research purposes, effectively conveying basic concepts.

Unbeknownst to many, the primary user interfaces of both Apple Macintosh and Windows PCs are, in fact, underpinned by C++ code.”