PACKAGE.md 1.4 KB
Flex
Flex (Fast Lexical Analyzer Generator) is a tool for generating programs that recognize patterns in text. It allows for the versatility to specify the rules for pattern-finding, eradicating the need to develop a specialized program.
Description
Flex is a free software alternative to the classic lex tool. It generates C source code for scanners that can recognize regular expressions. The generated scanners are highly efficient and suitable for use in a wide variety of applications, from simple text processing to complex lexical analysis in compilers.
Features
- Fast lexical analyzer generation
- Compatible with original lex specifications
- Generates efficient C code
- Supports extended regular expressions
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Active development and maintenance
Installed Programs
- flex: The main lexical analyzer generator
- flex++: A symbolic link to flex for C++ code generation
- lex: A symbolic link to flex for lex compatibility mode
Installed Libraries
- libfl.so: The flex library containing support functions
Documentation
Comprehensive documentation is installed in /usr/share/doc/flex-2.6.4/ including:
- Manual pages
- Examples
- Technical documentation
- FAQ
Compatibility
Flex maintains compatibility with the original lex tool while providing many enhancements and improvements. Programs that expect lex can use the provided lex symbolic link.