The Howdy Glossary

PAF (Programmation Automatique des Formules) is a computer programming language developed by the French company Calcomp in the 1960s specifically for numerical and symbolic computation. It allows users to write mathematical formulas that can be automatically compiled into machine code on various platforms, simplifying complex calculations for engineers. This approach enables engineers to perform intricate computations without needing extensive knowledge of low-level languages or direct interaction with compilers.

The ability of PAF to automatically compile user-written formulas into machine code sets it apart from other programming languages used during its time, such as Fortran, ALGOL, and Lisp. These competitors were also geared towards scientific and mathematical computing but required more involvement with the underlying programming processes. PAF's unique feature of automatic compilation made it particularly appealing to non-programmers like engineers who needed efficient solutions for handling complex calculations without delving deeply into programming intricacies.

PAF's focus on making numerical and symbolic computation accessible allowed it to stand out by addressing specific needs in the engineering field. Its ease of use facilitated quicker and more efficient mathematical computations, saving time and effort for professionals who did not have extensive programming backgrounds. By streamlining this process, PAF provided a competitive edge over other mathematical programming languages by offering a user-friendly tool tailored specifically for those requiring computational capabilities in their engineering work.