Abstract

In this thesis, we describe the construction of a Function Cross-Reference Browser, a tool of software visualization. The Browser is able to parse all the source files of a software application written in ANSI C++, to extract the information on the function cross reference hierarchy, and to provide 3D display of the call hierarchy. The Browser can handle a proper subset of the standard C++ features (including dynamic binding), and it provides a convenient way to traverse the function call tree in a graphic window, as well as other features for clear displaying. This thesis demonstrates the design and implementation of the Browser, provides detailed analysis of its execution behavior, discusses the limitations of it, and outlines some possible enhancements in the future. In summary, the work done by this thesis adds a new member to the area of software visualization. The Browser is a useful tool for software engineers. It can help them better understand a large, complicated software application written in C++ language