What You Should Know About a Computer Programming Career

What You Should Know About a Computer Programming Career

Computer programming is one of the most important and exciting careers today.  It is also a field that offers plenty of job opportunities for graduates.  It's one of the best fields of endeavor for people who love technology and are willing to try out new things.  If you're considering pursuing a computer programming career, here are some things that you should know:

What is computer programming?

Computer programming is basically the process of writing codes to create a computer program.  A programming language is used to write this code, also known as the source code.  Computer programming is actually an umbrella term that encompasses all types of programming involving the use of computers.  The design and method utilized to write a source code will depend on the type of computer language used for the job.  Some of the most common computer languages include BASIC, COBOL, FORTRAN, C++, Java, Visual Basic, Python and PHP.

The job of computer programming also includes testing the source code, debugging it to check for flaws and weaknesses and maintaining it to ensure optimum performance.  

Creating the code

The soul of computer programming is the creation of the source code, which can either be brand new or something created to modify or improve upon an already existing code.  The object of the source code is to build a program that will perform a particular series of tasks based on a specific set of commands.  This is called customization.  

The end result of writing the source code is a computer program.  In software engineering, computer programming is an important initial phase.

What does a computer programmer do?

The main job of a computer programmer is to write the codes that serve as the foundation of software programs.  He is also tasked to test, troubleshoot, debug and maintain the program to ensure its quality and reliability.  

Generally, the tasks that a computer programmer must perform are assigned by another person, usually the system analyst.  The computer programmer's job is then to write the program, test it, modify it if necessary and ensure that it passes compatibility and quality standards.  If errors are found, it is the computer programmer's job to ensure that they are corrected.

The job of a computer programmer usually requires hours upon hours spent in front of a computer to design and write a computer program.  Depending on the type of program being written, its purpose and the complexity of the commands required in order for a computer to execute the series of steps involved, writing a program can take several months to several years to complete.

The length of time it often takes for a program to be completed often necessitates having a single program broken down into a smaller series of steps.  These steps will then be assigned as tasks to a group of programmers who will work on them independently.  The final step is to put the end results and produce one coherent and useful computer program.

Computer programming is a very dynamic field and involves plenty of imagination and discipline.  Although there are set standards for the tasks involved, the profession itself does not require certification tests from government agencies.  There are also no state and federal licenses to obtain.  

How much does a computer programming job pay?

That will depend on the experience and level of expertise of the programmer.  Most entry level programmers earn a minimum of about $33,000 a year while mid-level programmers earn approximately $50,000 a year.  For senior level programmers and those who have several years of experience behind them, their typical take-home pay averages at about $65,000 a year.  Consultants, some managers and those who have advanced well in their computer programming career are often paid more.

Are Functions Core Concepts in Computer Programming?

Are Functions Core Concepts in Computer Programming?

Computer programming is a phrase that is bandied about quite heavily, but only few people actually understand its implications. The process of computer programming itself is difficult to understand for people who are not in the computer science field. Computer programming makes use of a code or a language: this language can be placed into several lines of code that can be translated to mean different things once they are processed as a program. For instance, the software that you use to calculate your taxes, or the software that you employ to make your simple web page are all products of skilful computer programming. Behind these software programs are scripts and codes, and these scripts and codes can mean different things.

For many different programming languages, a function can be important and can therefore be a key concept to learn when someone is interested in software and computer programming. A function can also be termed as a subroutine, procedure, or sub-query. How is a function important? For instance, if a company or institution has a library of many different programs, these programs can therefore consist of millions upon millions of lines of a source code. In the interests of time and space, you would like to keep from duplicating a certain source code in many different places. 

Why is duplication so undesirable? If a source code is duplicated in many different places, it is being needlessly copied, and it can spell Hell for the programmer and troubleshooter when things go wrong down the line. If the source code is actually erroneous, the programmer or troubleshooter will have to correct the code in all the different places that it appears. If the source code has to be updated or improved in order to make the program either run faster or perform more operations, then the source code has to be modified, improved, and updated in all the places that it appears. And if the source code has to be removed and replaced with a new source code, then it has to be erased and replaced with the new code in every single place that it appears.

This is indeed time-consuming, and it can lead to more errors because of all the human intervention that has to be done. On the other hand, if there are functions that are built to handle all the different programs, then only one or a few changes need to be made should there be errors, or should the source code have to be updated, modified, improved, or changed. You can think of the function as an umbrella: it covers all of many different programs beneath it, so that you do not have to cover each program individually. 

Having a single source code serving as the function is also advantageous when you have to introduce a new program that still makes use of that same source code. Because the source code is already available as an overall function or sub-program, you do not need to add the source code to the new program. You only need to find a way for the new program to interact with the source code itself.

These are only a few facts that you need to know about functions in computer programming. For more information, read up on the latest computer programs, how different programs can interact with each other using some umbrella or overall scripts, and how different programs can be improved when using functions.

The Different Sides of Computer Game Programming

The Different Sides of Computer Game Programming

Many people will play computer games without any knowledge of how much work went into the game. True, a lot of thought and creativity had to be employed in order to make the game work, but the game also required a good deal of computer programming and knowledge of different computer programming languages in order to make the game not only feel real, but look attractive as well. There are many sides of computer game programming, so if you are interested in computer game programming and may want to take up courses in the future, take a look at this list.

The game physics programmer is someone who directs how a game uses physics in order to look correct and feel correct. In most cases, a computer game will not completely simulate the physics of a real world, but some important aspects of physics may have to come into play for some games. For instance, wind resistance might be important to dogfights, while the fluid but retarded movements of some characters in water might be needed for a role-playing game.

The artificial intelligence programmer is the one in charge of developing the logical sequence of the game itself. For instance, when a game involves finding a path, employing strategies, or giving rise to enemy tactics, an artificial intelligence programmer may be called in to make a game smart – in other words, to make the game think on its own. In general, the computer language used for artificial intelligence programming is simpler than other languages, and it can be shared with the game’s players.

The graphics programmer uses a series of codes and algorithms in order to provide graphics in the world of the game. In the modern age, a graphics programmer has to work in a three-dimensional environment, and should therefore have knowledge of calculus, vector math, and other algebra concepts that may be needed for specializing in rendering such images. There are only very few graphics programmers, and they may usually demand high wages for their work.

A sound programmer will provide sounds in terms of characters’ dialogues, music, and even sounds that can make the game seem more real, such as the sound of crunching leaves or grass as characters walk on them. The gameplay programmer will add to the experience of the game, and will do so by focusing on the game’s feel and strategy. 

Computer game programming will also require a team of scripters, who are also usually the designers of the game. These scripters write the code of the game itself, usually with a basic computer language. Also needed are user interface programmers, or the UI: the UI programmers will create a library of different aspects that can be used across a wide variety of worlds within the game, or a wide variety of games within a manufacturer. The UI programming language involves a good deal of math, with the aim of producing special effects. 

Also important is an input programmer, who writes codes for how different kinds of hardware, such as the keyboard, joystick, or mouse, will affect the game. The network programmer will find ways for the game to work on a network, where people can play against each other. A porting programmer ensures that the game can work on different platforms and operating systems. 

Overseeing all these tasks is the lead game programmer. These are only a few aspects of computer game programming. As the field widens, more and more programmers of different kinds will have to be called in and identified as important.

Training in Macromedia

Training in Macromedia

The Macromedia family of software might be something that is taken for granted by people who have used the different kinds of software in it a lot. By popping the Macromedia disk into the CD-ROM drive, everyone, from a toddler to a computer programmer, can do a lot of things with his or her computer. However, for those who are interested in working with such software, computer programming and training in Macromedia is needed.

There are many kinds of software in the Macromedia family. For instance, if you are interested in developing computer software, and if you are looking for a way to make a dynamic website, then you may need Adobe ColdFusion, which works like the ASP package of Microsoft, or the programming language PHP. If you are hoping to cut down on website design, development, and editing time, then you may also be interested in Adobe Contribute, which allows different members of an organization to contribute to the changes made in a website, therefore saving time and money in hiring a single person or a team to make the changes in the site.

If you want to do website design but want to see your results immediately instead of plodding through oceans and oceans of script, then you may be interested in Adobe Dreamweaver. This popular member of the Macromedia family may not require programming skills, but it can help software programmers understand what certain scripts do and how these scripts behave online. 

For those interested in online learning solutions, there is Macromedia Authorware, which is a programming language that is based on flowcharts. Authorware is used for making programs that are interactive, and that can be integrated into various types of multimedia content. Also in demand is Adobe Director, which was originally created for making animation. Today, Adobe Director is used as a scripting language for creating a standalone kiosk, or CD-ROMS. It is also being used for developing online three-dimensional games. 

The Macromedia family also has its own graphics editor in the person of Adobe Fireworks. The Fireworks program is the graphics editor that is designed to integrate with other Macromedia products. Another graphics program is the FreeHand package, which creates vector graphics in two-dimensions, and is designed for the use of desktop publishers. 

What is undoubtedly the most popular package in the Macromedia family is the Flash and Shockwave group. Macromedia Shockwave players are multimedia players that were originally designed as independent packages, and that were made to play Flash programs. Today, however, the two are integrated heavily with each other; Flash itself is a highly powerful tool for website designers who want to create more dynamic and attractive websites that thrive heavily on animation. Despite the “eye candy” feel of Flash, however, most website designers stay away from it and do their own scripting, since Flash animation cannot be picked up by search engines, and can thus limit the amount of readable content that can help a website be more popular.

If you are interested in training in Macromedia, you also have to be aware that most of the packages presented are already under the Adobe umbrella. Moreover, you may need to hone your computer programming skills well enough to be able to run Macromedia applications and use them for your work. Not only is Macromedia all about popping something into your CD-ROM drive, it is about computer programming used well, in order to serve a wider variety of purposes.

TM Home Prepaid

What is Home Prepaid?

A prepaid fixed line pay-as-you-use service without monthly rental and bill.
Since there is no bill, all call usages is being deducted from Home Prepaid account value and customer has to reload/top-up his/her Home Prepaid account by using iTalk card to enjoy making calls without interruption.

To suit different needs, Home Prepaid service is available in 2 types – Home Prepaid SINGLE and Home Prepaid PLUS (but Home Prepaid Plus is no longer available for New Application starting from 24 December 2008)

Home Prepaid SINGLE
A prepaid fixed line service with a single Home Prepaid account that is shared among other individuals in the house.

The service allows you to make calls simply by lifting the handset of your telephone without the need of entering 12 digit account number or PIN (except for first time use, the user MUST enter the 12 digit account number for activation of the Home Prepaid SINGLE account).

Upon the date of activation, the user is able to make calls with subject to the validity period and account value of the Home Prepaid account before the account become de-active.

To avoid interruption to the service and inability to make calls, the user has to reload/top-up his/her account by using iTalk card.

Home Prepaid PLUS

A prepaid fixed line service with 1 Principal account and with a maximum of 8 supplementary accounts (1+8).

Each individuals (Principal and Supplementary account holders) use his/her own account number and pays for their own call charges. No more hassle as to who should settle the monthly phone bills.

To reduce the hassle of entering 12 digit account number every time for making call, the principal account holder has the option to set up an abbreviated account number (from 1 to 9) for each Principal and Supplementary accounts via Interactive Voice Response (IVR/voice prompt) from the Home Prepaid line.

However, for extra security and privacy, when the abbreviated account number has been set up, a PIN (the last 4 digits account number) MUST be enter before making call.

*Notes – please remember, Home Prepaid PLUS is no longer available for New Application
Home Prepaid Low ECP
Home Prepaid Low ECP package will be launched on 7th June 2009.

The objective of introducing the new package is to promote and increase NEW customers (NI) in Low ECP areas defined by Consumer Sales (CS).

Product characteristics and mechanism is the same to the current Home Prepaid package

The difference is this new package is targeted for customers in Low ECP areas for New Installation.

Features

• Available in RM30 Home Prepaid SINGLE starter pack
• Reloadable via iTalk card in RM10, RM20, RM30 and RM50 denomination
• Reloadable from the Home Prepaid telephone line OR from other telephone by dialing 1800-88-1088
• Options to reload the Home Prepaid account either on total value or partial value of the iTalk card.
• Account balance and expiry date announcement before making call
• 4 different languages (English, Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin and Tamil) to customize your preferred Interactive Voice response

Benefits

• No monthly fee
• No monthly phone bill (However, if there is Reverse Charge/Collect Call via Malaysia Direct or domestic operator to the Home Prepaid fixed line number, the call will be charge and it is the responsibility of the registered owner [SINGLE] or the principal account holder [PLUS] to settle the bill).
• Direct access to Interactive Voice Response (IVR) when lifting up the handset without the need of entering the access number
• Only pay for the calls you make where the credit will be deducted from iTalk card
• Can be use as a iTalk card when calling from other phones (at your friend’s home by dialing 1800-87-3636)
• Call to Emergency number or TM Contact Center 100 although the Home Prepaid account is expired or zero value.

Call Matrix

Type of Calls	Allowed	Barred
Local, STD and IDD	Allowed
Dial-up Internet 1515	Allowed
Dial-up Internet 1511 & 1525		Barred
EZnet (1315)	Allowed
Streamyx (Selected Packages Only)	Allowed
Malaysia Direct (from overseas)	Allowed
Freephone 1800 88 and 1300 88 only	Allowed
600 premium services	Allowed
Mass Calling	Allowed
TM Contact Centre – 100	Allowed
Emergency Number - 999,991,994	Allowed
TNB 15454	Allowed
MyVoice and 101		Barred
Directory– 103	Allowed

Home Prepaid Single Service Menu
Menu 1 - Make call

Normal call

Emergency call

Call to TM Card Service Centre

Menu 2 – To Check Balance
To check Home Prepaid Single Account balance

Menu 3 – Reload Account

To reload Home Prepaid Single Account

Menu 4 – Change Preferred Language

Menu 5 – To Register Abbreviated Account Number

To register abbreviated Account Number

Home Prepaid PLUS Service Menu
Menu 1 - To make call
Normal call

Emergency call

Call to TM Card Service Centre

Menu 2 – To Check Balance

To check Home Prepaid PLUS balance

Menu 3 – To Reload Account

To reload Home Prepaid PLUS Account

Menu 4 – To Change Preferred Language

To change preferred language

Menu 5 – To Register Abbreviated Account Number
To register abbreviated Account Number

Menu 6 – To Add Supplementary Account

How to add supplementary account?

* Add Supplementary Account rules:
Only Principal account is allowed to add or delete Supplementary Account
The deleted Supplementary Account is not allowed to be added to other Principal Account

Additional Information

1. Reload Account from other telephone
a) Home Prepaid Single

b) Home Prepaid PLUS

2. Use Home Prepaid Account starter pack as normal Ring Ring Card or iTalk
Home Prepaid starter pack can be used as a normal Ring Ring Card or iTalk by using other telephone

a) Ring Ring Card
Calling from registered telephone number (if the telephone number has been registered with Ring Ring Card.

Calling from unregistered telephone

b) iTalk

Calling from registered telephone number (if the telephone numberhas been registered with iTalk)

Calling from Unregistered telephone

3. Reload Rules

· 2 reloads per call

· 4 reloads per day

· Maximum value allowed per account is RM1000 at any one time

· Partial reload in RM5 increment e.g.: RM10, RM15, RM20

4. Validity Period

Total Reload by Face Value

Reload Value	Validity Period
RM10.00	10 days
RM20.00	30 days
RM30.00	40 days
RM50.00	90 days

Total Reload by Card Balance

Reload Value	Validity Period
RM0.01 – RM4.99	5 days
RM5.00 – RM19.99	10 days
RM20.00 – RM29.99	30 days
RM30.00 – RM49.99	40 days
RM50.00 – RM99.99	90 days
RM100.00 and above	120 days

Partial Reload

Reload Value	Validity Period
RM5.00 – RM15.00	10 days
RM20.00 – RM25.00	30 days
RM30.00 – RM45.00	40 days
RM50.00 – RM95.00	90 days
RM100 and above	120 days

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BASIC: A Computer Programming Language

BASIC: A Computer Programming Language

Computer programming has its own language, and that’s just the beginning of the software adventure. There are many different languages in computer programming, and all of them have their own purposes. In order to understand the importance of computer programming languages, knowing them, and tweaking them, one has to understand the importance of computer programming. Computer programming produces software packages, among other things, to meet our needs. We may need software for accounting, making photos bigger or smaller, or editing our home videos. Behind all these software packages are the computer programmers who use their individual languages in order to create the software.

One such computer programming language is the Beginner’s All-Purpose Symbolic Instruction Code, or BASIC. BASIC is actually composed of many different kinds of programming languages that are actually higher level than most other languages. This BASIC family of computer programming languages was first designed in the 1960’s, and was originally made for non-science people to gain better access to computers. During that time, using a computer required that a person write customized software, a task that only mathematicians and scientists were equipped to do. The BASIC language was therefore a bridge for people of other professions to take advantage of the power of computers. 

When the 1970’s came, the BASIC language, whether in its original form or a variant of it, spread onto microcomputers; and by the 1980’s, even home computers could be run in BASIC. Today, BASIC remains popular, as it serves as the basis for many of the more modern programming languages that have been developed in the wake of advanced operating systems and the Internet. 

When it was originally conceived, BASIC was meant for beginners: it was a language that people could use easily, whether or not they were educated in mathematics and the sciences. The language also had to be a general purpose one, in that it had to serve many different needs, and not only those that mathematicians and scientists required. 

The root language of BASIC also had to allow for advanced features to be plugged on as experts grew more and more adept in it, and as the language found further use in many other fields. BASIC was also meant to be interactive, and was designed to show error messages that were clear and friendly; that is, these error messages had to completely explain what the problem was, which would hopefully allow the user to fix it faster and easier.

When it was first released, moreover, BASIC was free of charge, which allowed the language to spread much faster. Once the language spread much faster, it was also easy to modify it and correct errors. BASIC was also distributed to a few high schools in order to promote it faster. Thanks to this widespread use of the language, BASIC was soon implemented on several microcomputers, and by several software manufacturers. 

Despite its success, BASIC has had its dissenters. For instance, some programmers find that its scripts do not show proper programming practices, and the language itself is too slow, or sometimes even too simple. Despite all these, however, BASIC has continued to thrive, succeed, and evolve, and has thus become a good tool to introduce beginner programmers to the concept of coding and computer programming.

These are only a few facts about the BASIC language. For more information on BASIC, read and do your own research through several key pages online, or using computer programming books.