Loader standardization for overlay programs
The overlay capability is described for four of the third generation computer systems: CDC-6000, GE-635, IBM-360, and UNIVAC-1108. A critique of the first three sytems is based on actual experience with a large overlaid trajectory simulation program; a short history and description of this program is presented. A standardization of minimum capabilities for loaders is recommended so that programs which must operate under more than one computer system may be easily converted and maintained. A proposal that overlay software incorporates a memory occupation specification concept instead of the conventional tree structure is delineated. This concept provides more efficient and cost-effective utilization of the memory as well as increasd flexibility in program structure.