The implementation of case statements in Pascal

Abstract

This paper examines the probable implementations of the case statement in Pascal, and analyses their consequences. A particular implementation for the Burroughs B6700/7700 series illustrates the necessary investigations. The techniques, though not new, are brought together to serve as a stimulus to improving the implementation of case-statements in other compilers for Pascal, and to provide ideas for implementers. The architectural limitations of even high-level computers in implementing the case statement are briefly discussed.