F2003 Features in 10.x

[joseph-krahn]

I have been testing the F2003 features in the 10.x beta series. I generated a complete interface to the HDF5 library C API. Support for the C_PTR type makes it possible to pass a generic data reference without a specific routine for every possible type/rank/kind combination. Type-specific functions are nice to catch bugs, but a generic reference makes it possible to store derived-type structures in the HDF5 data, as has been possible with C structures.

The bad news is that it does not yet support polymorphic derived types, or Fortran function pointers. However, the ability to use C_PTR as a generic pointer can often work around the lack of a polymorphic type. It is also possible to use C_FUNPTR to store function pointers, although without the type qualifications of a Fortran function pointer.

So, it seems that 10.0 will have all of the features needed to create code that can work with C portably. It would be interesting to know if other users have tested ISO_C_BINDING, and how other people feel about the need for polymorphic types and Fortran function pointers.

Joe Krahn

[Steven_L_Intel1]

Joe,

10.0 is still in beta testing. We do not encourage discussion of beta versions in this forum.

Procedure pointers are high on the list of things to do next.

[joseph-krahn]

>> We do not encourage discussion of beta versions in this forum.

OK, sorry; no comments on Intel's Beta compiler versions. Just consider Fortran's ISO_C_BINDING.

Even without other F2003 features, ISO_C_BINDING by itself is a huge advantage for a generic data API like HDF5. A lot of Fortran programmers see F2003 as just adding unneeded complexity, but I think they have not considered difficulties of trying to make a library API. I see ISO_C_BINDING as a huge step forward. Other people might think that the !DEC$ and other existing compiler extensions are sufficient.

[f2003]

I love Fortran2003?
how can I download 10.x ?

[TimP]

10.0 compilers would appear on registrationcenter.intel.com upon release, in a few weeks.

[Steven_L_Intel1]

Well, more than what I'd consider a few. You'll see an announcement here (and get email from Intel if you've registered your license and are eligible for the new version) when it happens. 10.0 will NOT be a "full F2003" compiler - I don't want unrealistic expectations.