View source for Overhead code

'''Overhead code''' is the additional (or excess) [[Object code|object code]] generated by a compiler to provide [[Machine code|machine code]] which will be executed by a specific [[Central processing unit|CPU]]. This code includes translations of generic instructions listed in cross-platform code, and is tailored for execution on a specific platform or architecture. An example of overhead code would be code generated to handle [[Reference counting|reference counting]], while [[Source code|source code]] written in a high level language is an example cross-platform code.

==Analogy==
The coverage area of a standalone house is more than the space taken by enclosures. Similarly, overhead code is the part of the program which is not listed in the source code. However, it is needed for the software to operate properly.

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[[Category:Compiler construction]]



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