Data Representations in PDP-10 MACLISP

Abstract

The internal representations of the various MacLISP data types are presented and discussed. Certain implementation tradeoffs are considered. The ultimate decisions on these tradeoffs are discussed in the light of MacLISP's prime objective of being an efficient high-level language for the implementation of large systems such as MACSYMA. The basic strategy of garbage collection is outlined, with reference to the specific representations involved. Certain "clever tricks" are explained and justified. The "address space crunch" is explained and some alternative solutions explored.