FORTRAN Debugging Technique

This document is the manual for the FORTRAN Debugging Technique (FDT), an interactive tool used for debugging FORTRAN IV programs on PDP-11 systems running the RT-11 or RSTS/E operating systems. FDT allows users to maintain step-by-step control over program execution, examine and modify variables, and automate debugging tasks using macros and pause points.

Key sections of the manual cover:

• Getting Started: Instructions on compiling programs for FDT compatibility and linking the tool.
• Command Types: A categorization of commands into program control (e.g., START, STEP, CONTINUE, PAUSE), information transfer (e.g., TYPE, ACCEPT, NAME, DIMENSION), and FDT control (e.g., GOTO, IF, MACRO, WHAT).
• Conventions and Terminology: Explanations regarding syntax, location specification formats (offsets, named locations, relative addressing), and the use of mode codes to define data types.
• Advanced Techniques: Procedures for accessing variables in named common blocks, generating addresses, and using format conversion routines.
• Error Messages: A comprehensive list of FDT error messages and their meanings.
• Appendices: Summaries of FDT commands, location specification formats, and supported data modes.