BBC BASIC for Windows is a user-friendly programming software that offers both simplicity and sophistication. It enables users to write games and utilities, use sound and graphics, perform calculations, and create Windows applications.
I recently had the chance to try out BBC BASIC for Windows, which is an implementation of the already-familiar BASIC programming language. However, this one comes with a modern twist that makes it stand out!
One of the most noticeable features is the simplistic yet intuitive Graphical User Interface. It also includes a BASIC program editor complete with syntax colouring, live indentation, and search & replace. These features make programming a breeze and allow for the creation of utilities and games, sound and graphics, data calculations, and even complete Windows applications.
The software provides built-in diagnostic tools that assist with debugging even the most complex programs. Runtime trace, variable listing, single-step execution, and optional line numbers make debugging straightforward and less time-consuming.
BBC BASIC for Windows also includes a unique assembler feature, which generates 32-bit code and accepts all 80486 instructions and some Pentium-specific instructions. It's worth noting that floating-point and MMX are also included. Programmers with more experience can access the Windows Application Program Interface (API) from both BASIC and assembler code, producing sophisticated applications.
The full, paid-for version of BBC BASIC for Windows allows for the creation of a compact stand-alone executable file (.EXE) from your BASIC program. These files are significantly smaller than some other compilers, typically less than 100K, and don't require a separate DLL to operate. This makes the program more accessible to those without BBC BASIC installed, and royalty-free distribution is permitted.
Overall, BBC BASIC for Windows is a powerful programming tool with many features to offer all experience levels. It's a highly recommended software for those looking to create utilities, games, Windows applications, or anything in-between.
One of the most noticeable features is the simplistic yet intuitive Graphical User Interface. It also includes a BASIC program editor complete with syntax colouring, live indentation, and search & replace. These features make programming a breeze and allow for the creation of utilities and games, sound and graphics, data calculations, and even complete Windows applications.
The software provides built-in diagnostic tools that assist with debugging even the most complex programs. Runtime trace, variable listing, single-step execution, and optional line numbers make debugging straightforward and less time-consuming.
BBC BASIC for Windows also includes a unique assembler feature, which generates 32-bit code and accepts all 80486 instructions and some Pentium-specific instructions. It's worth noting that floating-point and MMX are also included. Programmers with more experience can access the Windows Application Program Interface (API) from both BASIC and assembler code, producing sophisticated applications.
The full, paid-for version of BBC BASIC for Windows allows for the creation of a compact stand-alone executable file (.EXE) from your BASIC program. These files are significantly smaller than some other compilers, typically less than 100K, and don't require a separate DLL to operate. This makes the program more accessible to those without BBC BASIC installed, and royalty-free distribution is permitted.
Overall, BBC BASIC for Windows is a powerful programming tool with many features to offer all experience levels. It's a highly recommended software for those looking to create utilities, games, Windows applications, or anything in-between.
What's New
Version 5.94a: Minor bugs fixed; Unicode support in program editor; 4-voice sound option; *TIMER command