Best fortran compiler for Windows 7?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the best Fortran compilers available for Windows 7, particularly for users transitioning from C++ to Fortran. Participants explore various compiler options, their usability, and the challenges faced by beginners in learning Fortran on Windows platforms.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions the GNU Fortran compiler as a free and effective option, suggesting the use of the CYGWIN system for Windows users.
  • Another participant expresses confusion about the steps needed to learn Fortran, particularly for those with limited programming knowledge, questioning the clarity of available resources.
  • Some participants argue that Fortran may not be the best choice for beginners, suggesting alternatives like Java or Pascal for learning programming.
  • There are mentions of other compilers such as Simply Fortran and Silverfrost ftn95, with varying features and limitations discussed.
  • One participant notes that Fortran is largely used in specific scientific contexts today and expresses a personal dislike for the language.
  • Another participant reflects on the historical context of programming languages, noting that Fortran, Cobol, and Basic have become niche languages compared to more commonly taught languages like Java and C++.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions on the suitability of Fortran for beginners, with some advocating for its use while others recommend different languages. There is no consensus on the best compiler or the best approach to learning Fortran, indicating multiple competing views.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the need for clearer guidance and resources for beginners, particularly regarding the installation and use of compilers like CYGWIN. There are also discussions about the relevance of Fortran in modern programming education.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals transitioning to Fortran from other programming languages, educators considering curriculum options, and those seeking compiler recommendations for Windows environments.

  • #31
Svein said:
Thirty years? That would be in the middle of the 1980s
Look at the date on the post that you quoted. :oldwink:
 
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  • #32
jim mcnamara said:
This thread pre-dates dinosaurs as well as FORTRAN (hyperbole). I am not positive, but I believe "necroposting" is no-no here.
The thread was no that old. (It was still open for replies.) In any case, it seems to have been re-animated by a one-time poster with more interest in (and knowledge about) his own link than in (about) Fortran.
 
Last edited:
  • #33
@Krylov I agree. Apparently the rule is not hard and fast, which understandable. Mentor indicated that since it has had a stream of posts over time they feel it can stay.

Older PF threads are meant for reference usually. And they are a resource.
 
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  • #34
Historical trivia - I learned Fortran IV back in 1968 in high school, at a special Saturday class at an IBM data center (back in the days when many companies rented time on computers located at data centers). The high school had a Monrobot computer at the time that used some custom language called quickcomp, but a year later (1969), my high school got an IBM 1130 computer where I used Fortran IV, and assembly. My first job in 1973 on HP 2100 series computers was mostly assembly on a multi-computer / multi-threading database online system, using Fortran IV for the offline work. I also did some self-study programming in APL and Cobol at a local college computer center. I didn't start programming in C until the mid 1980's.

So getting back to the original question, since it's now 2016 and not 2011, what Fortran compilers are good for Windows 7 and later, perhaps 64 bit mode and possibly usage of SIMD / SSE instructions? How much of a trade off between good compiler and cost?
 

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