# A#

> programming language port

**Wikidata**: [Q1049708](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1049708)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Sharp_(.NET))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/a-q1049708

## Summary
A# is a programming language port developed by GNAT, first released in 2004. It is a derivative of the Ada programming language, integrated into the GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) system, and licensed under the GNU General Public License. The language is distinct from A♯, another musical notation system.

## Key Facts
- A# is a programming language port developed by GNAT, a compiler for Ada integrated into the GCC system.
- It was first released in 2004 and is licensed under the GNU General Public License.
- A# is distinct from A♯, a musical notation system, and is classified as a programming language.
- The official website for A# is [asharp.martincarlisle.com](http://asharp.martincarlisle.com).
- A# is copyrighted and has been referenced in academic and knowledge databases, including Freebase.
- The language is available in multiple Wikipedia language editions, including Arabic, Azerbaijani, English, and Korean.
- A# is developed by GNAT, which was first introduced in 1992.

## FAQs
**What is A# and how does it differ from A♯?**
A# is a programming language port developed by GNAT, while A♯ is a musical notation system. Both are distinct entities, with A# being a derivative of Ada and licensed under the GNU General Public License.

**Who developed A# and when was it released?**
A# was developed by GNAT, a compiler for Ada integrated into the GCC system, and was first released in 2004.

**Is A# free to use?**
Yes, A# is licensed under the GNU General Public License, making it a free software project.

**Where can I find more information about A#?**
The official website for A# is [asharp.martincarlisle.com](http://asharp.martincarlisle.com).

**What programming language is A# based on?**
A# is a port of the Ada programming language, developed as part of the GNAT compiler system.

## Why It Matters
A# plays a significant role in the free software ecosystem by providing a port of the Ada programming language under the GNU General Public License. Its development as part of the GNAT project, which integrates Ada into the GCC system, contributes to the broader adoption of Ada in open-source environments. The language's availability in multiple Wikipedia language editions reflects its global relevance, particularly in regions where Ada is used for critical systems. By distinguishing itself from A♯, A# ensures clarity in its identity as a programming language rather than a musical notation.

## Notable For
- Being a port of the Ada programming language under the GNU General Public License.
- Integration into the GNAT compiler system, which was first introduced in 1992.
- Availability in multiple Wikipedia language editions, indicating its global recognition.
- Distinction from A♯, a musical notation system, to avoid confusion in its classification.

## Body
### Overview
A# is a programming language port developed by GNAT, a compiler for Ada integrated into the GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) system. It was first released in 2004 and is licensed under the GNU General Public License, making it a free software project. The language is distinct from A♯, a musical notation system, and is classified as a programming language in knowledge databases.

### Development and History
A# was developed as part of the GNAT project, which began in 1992. GNAT is a compiler for Ada that integrates with the GCC system, allowing Ada programs to be compiled alongside other languages supported by GCC. The development of A# reflects the broader effort to make Ada accessible in open-source environments. The language's first release in 2004 marked a significant milestone in its availability and adoption.

### Licensing and Availability
A# is licensed under the GNU General Public License, ensuring its availability as free software. The language is copyrighted and has been referenced in academic and knowledge databases, including Freebase. Its official website, [asharp.martincarlisle.com](http://asharp.martincarlisle.com), serves as a primary resource for developers and users. The language is available in multiple Wikipedia language editions, including Arabic, Azerbaijani, English, and Korean, indicating its global relevance.

### Distinction from A♯
A# is distinct from A♯, a musical notation system, to avoid confusion in its classification. The distinction is important for ensuring clarity in its identity as a programming language rather than a musical notation. This separation helps maintain the integrity of A# as a tool for software development, particularly in environments where Ada is used for critical systems.

### Related Projects and Ecosystem
A# is part of the broader ecosystem of free software projects developed under the GNU General Public License. Its integration into the GNAT compiler system, which supports the Ada programming language, contributes to the broader adoption of Ada in open-source environments. The language's availability in multiple Wikipedia language editions reflects its global recognition, particularly in regions where Ada is used for critical systems.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013