Ada

Description #

Ada is a statically typed, high-level programming language known for its reliability, safety, and strong typing. It is widely used in systems where failure is not an option, such as aviation, defense, medical devices, and space systems.

History #

Ada was developed in the late 1970s by the U.S. Department of Defense to standardize programming across military systems. It was named after Ada Lovelace, the first computer programmer. The language was designed by Jean Ichbiah and his team and became an ANSI standard in 1983. Ada has since evolved through multiple versions — Ada 83, Ada 95, Ada 2005, Ada 2012, and most recently Ada 2022 — each adding modern features like OOP, concurrency, and contract-based programming.

Hello World Code #

with Ada.Text_IO; use Ada.Text_IO;

procedure Hello is
begin
   Put_Line("Hello, World!");
end Hello;

How to Run #

Option 1: Online

• OnlineGDB – Ada
• JDoodle – Ada

Option 2: Local

Install the GNAT compiler (part of the AdaCore toolset or via apt):

sudo apt install gnat

Save as hello.adb and compile:

gnatmake hello.adb
./hello

Key Concepts #

1. Strong static typing
2. Compiled and modular
3. Designed for high-integrity systems
4. Built-in support for concurrency
5. Exception handling
6. Contract-based programming (pre/post conditions)
7. Packages and separate compilation
8. Safe pointer and memory handling
9. Real-time system support
10. Backward compatibility across Ada versions

Try It Online #

• OnlineGDB – Ada
• JDoodle – Ada

Fun Facts #

• Ada Lovelace is considered the world’s first computer programmer.
• NASA and the FAA continue to use Ada for critical mission software.
• Ada programs are sometimes required by law in defense-grade systems.

Resources #

• AdaCore – Tools and IDEs
• Learn Ada Online
• Ada Reference Manual
• Ada on Rosetta Code