Three simple steps
How to use this tool?
This free online converter translates Fortran source code into COBOL in three simple steps.
- Step 1
Add your Fortran code
Type, paste, or upload the Fortran code you want to translate.
- Step 2
Convert the code
Click Convert to translate the source code into COBOL.
- Step 3
Review the result
Review, copy, or download the resulting COBOL code from the output editor.
See it in action
Examples of Fortran to COBOL conversion
These examples show Fortran source code and the corresponding COBOL translation. Generated results can vary as AI models are updated.
Example 1
Is String Palindrome
Program that checks if a string is a palindrome or not.
Fortran code
COBOL code
Example 2
Even or Odd
A well commented function to check if a number if odd or even.
Fortran code
COBOL code
Language comparison
Key differences between Fortran and COBOL
| Characteristic | Fortran | COBOL |
|---|---|---|
| Syntax | Fortran uses a fixed-format syntax with specific column requirements. | COBOL uses a verbose and English-like syntax with a more flexible format. |
| Paradigm | Fortran is primarily a procedural programming language. | COBOL is primarily a procedural programming language with support for object-oriented programming. |
| Typing | Fortran has static typing. | COBOL has static typing. |
| Performance | Fortran is known for its high performance in scientific and numerical computing. | COBOL is not typically used for performance-critical applications. |
| Libraries and frameworks | Fortran has a wide range of libraries and frameworks for scientific and numerical computing. | COBOL has limited libraries and frameworks compared to Fortran. |
| Community and support | Fortran has a smaller but dedicated community with good support for scientific and numerical computing. | COBOL has a larger community and better support for business and legacy systems. |
| Learning curve | Fortran has a steeper learning curve due to its specific syntax and focus on scientific computing. | COBOL has a moderate learning curve, especially for those with a background in business systems. |
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert Fortran to COBOL?
Paste your Fortran code into the input box, confirm the languages are set to Fortran and COBOL, and click Convert. CodeConvert AI analyzes your Fortran code and generates equivalent COBOL code in seconds, preserving the original logic and structure.
What are the main differences between Fortran and COBOL?
Fortran and COBOL differ in syntax, type system, standard libraries, and common idioms, so copying code line for line usually will not compile. The converter maps each Fortran construct to its closest COBOL equivalent. See the comparison table below for the key differences between Fortran and COBOL.
Is the converted COBOL code accurate?
The AI produces high-quality COBOL code that preserves the behavior of your original Fortran code and follows COBOL conventions. It handles common patterns, data structures, and idioms for both Fortran and COBOL. For large or performance-critical code, review and test the COBOL output before using it in production.
Can I convert an entire Fortran project to COBOL?
You can convert Fortran files one at a time by pasting each file's code. For a full migration, convert each file and then review how classes, dependencies, and project structure map from Fortran to COBOL. Signing in for free raises the input limit to 25,000 characters per conversion for larger files.
Can I convert COBOL back to Fortran?
Yes. CodeConvert AI converts in both directions, so you can convert COBOL to Fortran just as easily using our COBOL to Fortran converter. Try the COBOL to Fortran Converter
Is the Fortran to COBOL converter free, and do I need to install anything?
Yes, it is free and runs in your browser with nothing to install and no IDE extension required. You can convert Fortran to COBOL without an account for up to 5 conversions per day. Sign in for free for higher limits.
What are the benefits of signing in?
Signing in unlocks CodeConvert AI's Pro converter with more powerful AI models, a built-in chat assistant, code execution, saved conversion history, and personal notes. Every free account includes 5 credits and supports up to 25,000 characters of input per conversion, with no credit card required.
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