An apparatus and method for cataloging symbolic data for use in performance analysis
of computer programs is provided. The apparatus and method stores symbolic data
for loaded modules during or shortly after a performance trace and utilizes the
stored symbolic data when performing a performance analysis at a later time. A
merged symbol file is generated for a computer program, or application, under trace.
The merged symbol file contains information useful in performing symbolic resolution
of address information in trace files for each instance of a module. During post
processing of the trace information generated by a performance trace of a computer
program, symbolic information stored in the merged symbol file is compared to the
trace information stored in the trace file. The correct symbolic information in
the merged symbol file for loaded modules is identified based a number of validating
criteria. The correct symbolic information for the loaded modules may then be stored
as an indexed database that is used to resolve address information into corresponding
symbolic information when providing the trace information to a display for use
by a user.