Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around finding affordable Fortran compilers suitable for scientific computing, specifically targeting Fortran 77 and Fortran 99. Participants share resources and recommendations for both free and paid options, with a focus on different operating systems.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Homework-related
Main Points Raised
- One participant expresses a need to learn Fortran 77 or Fortran 99 for a scientific computing course and seeks affordable compiler options.
- Another participant suggests that the question is trivial for Linux users and recommends Simply Fortran for Windows users, noting its cost-effectiveness and ease of installation.
- A participant provides links to resources listing available Fortran compilers, indicating a variety of options.
- One participant corrects the original poster's terminology, stating there is no "Fortran 99" but rather Fortran 77, 90, and 95, and discusses the merits of Fortran 95 for high-performance computing.
- Additional suggestions include links to Intel's educational offerings and the G95 compiler, with a mention of Intel's compiler costing around $129.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the availability of various compilers and provide multiple options, but there is some disagreement regarding the terminology and versions of Fortran, particularly the existence of "Fortran 99."
Contextual Notes
Some assumptions about the user's operating system and budget are present, and there are unresolved points regarding the specific features and benefits of different Fortran versions.