linkage editor
Noun: 1. A type of computer program: A linkage editor is a software tool, specifically an editor program, that combines multiple separate program modules into a single, unified, and executable module. Its primary function is to resolve cross-references, such as calls to functions or uses of variables, between these different modules.
The term is used in the context of software development, compilation, and system programming. It describes a specific stage in creating a program where separately compiled code pieces are connected. * The programmer used a linkage editor to combine the object files into a final executable. * Before the program can run, the linkage editor must resolve all external references between the libraries and the main code.
- Historical Context: The term "linkage editor" is often associated with older or mainframe systems (e.g., IBM OS/360). In modern parlance for systems like Unix, Linux, or Windows, the more common term is simply linker. The linkage editor/loader performed both linking and loading functions.
- Process Distinction: It is distinct from a compiler. A compiler translates source code into object code. The linkage editor then takes multiple object files and libraries to produce a load module.
- Linker (n): The modern, more general term for a program that performs the linking operation. Often used synonymously with "linkage editor."
- Link (v): The action performed by a linkage editor; to combine object files.
- Loader (n): A program that places an executable module into memory for execution. Historically, a "linkage editor" and "loader" were combined.
- Linker
- Binder (less common, used in some specific systems)
- Static Linking: The process performed by a linkage editor, where all library code is copied into the final executable module.
- Resolve References / Symbols: The core task of the linkage editor, finding the memory addresses for all function calls and variable uses between modules.
- Object File: The input to a linkage editor (e.g., or files).
- Load Module / Executable: The output produced by a linkage editor (e.g., or binary file).
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an editor program that creates one module from several by resolving cross-references among the modules
