How is mac from programmer's perspective?

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Subject: How is mac from programmer's perspective?
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Date: Mon, 28-Jan-85 07:44:44 EST
Article-I.D.: uw-beave.620
Posted: Mon Jan 28 07:44:44 1985
Date-Received: Tue, 29-Jan-85 06:36:51 EST
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From: Michael C. Adler

I'm trying to figure out whether the mac is a suitable replacement for
my z80 development system (read hacking) and dealers don't have the
information. Essentially, I am trying to get a feel for the mac
as a programmer's machine. I'm really tired of OS's like MS-DOS that
are glorified program loaders and I want integrated graphics. The
price of the mac is certainly right. If people could answer the
following questions, I'd be most appreciative.

I know that C compilers are available. Does the code they generate
run at a level below some C object or can system programs be developed?
Very important: IS A SYMBOLIC DEBUGGER AVAILABLE FOR SOME VERSION OF C?

I have an Epson LQ1500 printer that I am not willing to give up. Is it
possible to write printer drivers for things other than the imagewriter
using only a mac? I've seen ads for a driver by Assimilation Process. Has
anyone seen the output from this? Does it use the LQ1500's own proportional
spaced font?

I see a lot of C programs on sumex-aim that include files with odd names.
Am I correct in assuming that these are for the Lisa development system.
If not, what is used to compile these on the mac? If a Lisa is required
for these, what limitations are imposed on mac development done on a
mac?


Thank you in advance for your assistance. Its a shame I can't get
questions like this answered at a dealer.
-Michael