How is C Programming still popular?

The world of computers is filled to the brim with high level programming languages, but even today, an age old computer language like C is still around in the computer world. Even today, there are multitudes of systems that still make use of C as the main programming language in many parts of the world. So let us take a look at how C is still used around the world quite popularly. Read on to find out more.

C in MS Windows

The entire kernel of Microsoft Windows is developed with the help of the C programming language, along with assembly language as support. Windows has a total market share of about 90%, and for decades now, C has been the prime power source for its kernel.

C in Linux

Most of the features used in the Linux operating system are written with the C programming language, with the assembly language in support. Almost every supercomputer around the world runs on Linux, along with a few other home computers, and C is behind the proper functioning of all of them.

C in Mac

In case of Mac OS as well, C is used to write a major part of the OS X kernel. Even though C is considered by many as obsolete, they are using C programming every single day in the form of iPhone or iPad apps and they do not even know about it.

C in smartphones

The kernels of Windows Phones, Android and iOS, are written with - yes you guessed it right - C Programming language. These mobile OSs are just smaller versions of the big dogs like Windows and Mac OS, so it is actually quite natural that C will have a hand in these as well.

C in Databases

C programming language is mostly used in almost all the popular database tools in the computer world, namely, MySQL, Oracle, PostgreSQL, MS SQL Server, etc. The codes on these tools are written with the help of C, as well as C++. C-programmed databases are used in various global fields such as education, health, finance, government, media, social networks, etc.

C in 3D movies

Movie producers create 3D movies using C or C++ supported applications. These movie making applications have to be fast and efficient, as their main responsibility is to handle and transfer data, as well as perform calculations that are not possible for the human mind. The only way these tools can be made efficient is to use the C programming language. C programming makes these applications fast and easy to use, thereby making the movie production a profitable one.

C in embedded systems

C programming is there in almost every part of our lives. When we are woken up in the morning by a digital alarm clock, the ability of the clock to ring at the specified time is given by C programming. A microwave that you use to cook your meal works on the same principles for calculating the amount of heat required. The radio we listen to for news or music, or the TV we watch – all come with embedded systems and microprocessors that work with the support of C programming language. Even our garage door works on the same principle. So you see – our world is quite literally “run” by C programming.

Now, let us take a look at what else is run by C or C++ when we drive in a car to go somewhere:

• The system that detects tire pressure
• Automatic transmission
• Oil level, temperature and oxygen sensors
• Dashboard display
• Cruise control
• Anti lock brakes
• Climate control
• Keyless entry
• Airbag control
• Heated seats

These are some of the many reasons as to why C programming is still popular in our world.