OCAS - On-line Cryptanalytic Aid System

Abstract

Deficiencies of various programming languages for dealing with quantities frequently encountered in cryptanalysis of simple cipher systems will be discussed. A programming system is proposed which will permit a cryptanalyst to write and debug programs to aid in he solution of cryptograms or cryptographic systems. The basic elements of the proposed programming system are discussed in detail. They include: 1) a programming language to handle both algebraic quantities and character strings, 2) a display generator to permit quick specification of a display frame containing both alphanumeric strings and numerical data for an on-line CRT display device, and 2) an on-line program to control operation of the system and in debugging programs written in the proposed language.