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*DBASE HELP TEXT FILE DBASEMSG.TXT VERSION 1.17 FOR dBASE II v2.41 Copyright 1984 Ashton-Tate Written by Wayne Ratliff, Jim Taylor, and Howard Dickler INTRODUCTION This entry is intended to give you on-line information about your dBASE II Database Management System. It explains the disk files you have received, and gives suggestions on tapping the power now available to you for data management. Using the on-line HELP in conjunction with your Manual, you will soon be creating databases and writing command procedures to do your work. >>>>>>> type any key to continue <<<<<<< HOW TO USE THE 'HELP' FACILITY Information about your dBASE II system can be obtained by typing HELP and the name of a dBASE II command or HELP and any of the following key words. FULL SCREEN LIMITS NEW VIDEO ERRORS FUNCTIONS DBASE GLOSSARY HELP INSTALL RUNTIME >Note: Entire key words need not be entered. dBASE will then look up the entry for the key word and display it. If there is no information on the subject then dBASE will say "NO HELP MESSAGES FOUND". When there is more text to display beyond what's shown, then you will see the word WAITING (like this). >>>>>>> type any key to continue <<<<<<< The essential dBASE II files on this disk are: DBASE.COM -- main system program file DBASEOVR.COM -- all overlays and system messages DBASEMSG.TXT -- this HELP file (only necessary if you use HELP) INSTALL.COM -- terminal installation program (not necessary after terminal is installed). *EXIT *FULL SCREEN FULL-SCREEN CURSOR MOVEMENT CODES -- ALL COMMANDS ctrl-X moves cursor DOWN to the next field (also ctrl-F) ctrl-E moves cursor UP to the previous field (also ctrl-A) ctrl-D moves cursor AHEAD one character ctrl-S moves cursor BACK one character ctrl-G deletes character under cursor <Rubout> or <DEL> deletes character to left of cursor ctrl-Y blanks out current field to right of cursor ctrl-V toggles between overwrite and INSERT modes ctrl-W save changes and returns to "." prompt IN EDIT MODE ctrl-U toggles the record DELETE mark on and off ctrl-C writes current record to disk and ADVANCES to next record ctrl-R writes current record to disk and BACKS to previous record ctrl-Q ignores changes to current record and returns to "." prompt ctrl-W writes all changes to disk and returns to "." prompt IN BROWSE MODE ctrl-B pans the window RIGHT one field ctrl-Z pans the window LEFT one field IN MODIFY MODE ctrl-T DELETES current line, moves all lower lines up ctrl-N INSERTS new line at cursor position ctrl-C scrolls down a half page ctrl-W writes all changes to disk and returns to "." prompt ctrl-Q ignores all changes and returns IN APPEND MODE <enter> terminates APPEND when cursor is in first position of first field ctrl-W writes record to disk and moves to next record ctrl-Q ignores current record and returns to "." prompt CONTROL KEY STROKES OPERABLE WHEN NOT IN FULL SCREEN ctrl-P toggles your printer ON and OFF ctrl-R repeats last executed command ctrl-X clears the command line without executing command ctrl-H backspace ctrl-M emulates a carriage return ctrl-S starts/stops CPU operation *VIDEO Your KAYPRO has a variety of video attributes including reverse and half intensity, blinking, underlining and cursor off. In- structions for using these are found in you User's Manual. In the meantime, we've included two examples of the possibilities with your dBASE II system. One program, REV-ON will turn on half-intensity reverse video and the other, REV-OFF, turns it off. To use, type: . DO REV-ON or . DO REV-OFF at the dBASE II (.) prompt. *EXIT *INSTALL In order to use dBASE II's Full-screen editing facility, your terminal must be properly installed. Many dBASE formats are pre- installed. If yours is not your screen will appear jumbled when you attempt to perform such full screen operations as APPEND or EDIT. To correct this you must install dBASE II by running the dBASE II installation program, INSTALL.COM, called from your system as INSTALL. Since you may diagnose your terminal's status at any time by running STARTUP.PRG (called from the dBASE II "." prompt by entering the command DO STARTUP), you would be wise to use it before attempting to INSTALL dBASE II. It will tell you if you need to run the installation program, and can be used later to check the results if you do. *EXIT *NEW > New commands and changes to dBASE II New commands: HELP -- user aid command. REINDEX -- realigns and updates existing index file. SET F<n> -- sets value of function key on IBM PC, Victor, TI Professional, and IBM PC compatible terminals. SET COLOR -- alters display color on terminals listed above. TEXT -- displays multiple lines of text, terminated by ENDTEXT. RANK( ) -- function returns ASCII value of first character. TEST( ) -- function determines validity of <exp> Supplemented Commands: APPEND,INSERT,EDIT,CREATE -- can now use a format file for screen control. BROWSE -- can now be given a list of fields to work with. DISPLAY STATUS -- shows databases and indexes in use and SET settings. READ & REPLACE -- can be directed not to perform disk accesses when non-key data is changed. RELEASE -- can now release subsets of memory variables. RESTORE -- can restore additively to existing memory variables. SAVE -- can now save subsets of memory variables. SET RAW ON -- eliminates extra spaces in DISPLAY and ? commands. UPDATE -- replace clause can now include WITH phrases. *EXIT *GLOSSARY dBASE II TERMINOLOGY <commands> or <statements> - any valid dBASE command or function. <cstring> -- character string(s). In most instances must be delimited with single quotes (''), double quotes (""), or brackets ([]). <cstring exp> -- an <exp> whose content is defined as Character in type. May be a cstring, a memvar or field of type C or any combination of these items concatenated with the dBASE operators. <delimiter> -- any non-alphanumeric character used to demarcate data, e.g., single quotes (''), double quotes (""), brackets ([]), colons (::), commas (,,), etc. <exp> or <expression> -- an item or group of items and operators whose value can be determined by dBASE. <exp>s may be defin- ed as C,N, or L depending on the "type" of data they contain. <exp list> -- a list of expressions delimited with commas. <field> -- a record field name. <field list> -- a list of field names delimited with commas. <file> -- name of file you wish to create or access. <index file> -- name of index file you wish to create or access. <key> -- list of field(s) or portion(s) thereof used to create index files or sorted databases. <memvar> -- the name of a memory variable. <memvar list> -- list of memory variables delimited with commas. <n> -- a number which dBASE regards as a literal value. <numeric exp> -- an <exp> whose content is defined as Numeric. <scope> -- command option specifies range of records dBASE must treat in executing command. <scope> has three possible values: ALL records in file; NEXT <n> records in file; and RECORD <n>. Default value varies from command to command. <skeleton> -- allows batch manipulation of files of same type and/or with matching characters in filename using operating system "wild cards," ? and *. Also allows batch manipulation of groups of <memvars> with matching characters in name. <variable> -- the name of a database field or <memvar>. *EXIT *? *?? > ? -- Evaluates and displays the value of an expression. In command files (and elsewhere) can be used without expression to space down a line at output. . ? 6/3 2 . ? 'CITY' CITY . ? CITY (field of file in use) Managua > ?? -- Same as ?, but displays result on same line as entry. *EXIT *@ > @ -- Displays user formatted data on screen or printer at spec- ified x,y coordinates (x=line,y=column). Syntax: @ <coords> [SAY <exp> [USING '<picture>']] [GET <variable> [PICTURE '<picture>']] Examples: @ 3,23 SAY AMOUNT * 1.06 USING '$$$,$$$.99' @ 14,23 SAY "ENTER PHONE" GET PHONE PICTURE '(###)###-####' @ LINE+2,45 SAY TOTAL USING '99999.99' *EXIT *ACCEPT > ACCEPT -- Prompts user to enter character string information into a designated memory variable. Syntax: ACCEPT ['<prompt cstring>'] TO <memvar> Example:. ACCEPT "What is your name?" to NAME What is your name?: [user's response stored to SIN] . ? NAME [user's response displayed] *EXIT *APPEND > APPEND FROM <file> [FOR <exp>] or APPEND FROM <file> [SDF] [DELIMITED] [FOR <exp>] -- appends data FROM a database or file in System Data Format file to the database in use. Records marked for deletion in FROM <file> will not be appended. e.g., APPEND FROM MAILLIST FOR NAME='N' APPEND FROM TEST.TXT DELIMITED > APPEND BLANK -- appends a blank record to file in use. > APPEND -- allows user to add new records to database in use. (If index is also in use, the index file is automatically updated). *EXIT *BROWSE > BROWSE [FIELDS <field list>] -- Brings up Full-screen viewing and editing of the database in use. *EXIT *CANCEL > CANCEL -- In a command file, stops command file execution and returns user to dBASE "." prompt. Command file fragment: ACCEPT "What should this humble machine do next?" to NEXT IF NEXT = 'Q' CANCEL ENDIF *EXIT *CHANGE > CHANGE -- Permits Non-Full-Screen editing of database in use by field. Hit ESCape key to terminate CHANGE mode. Syntax: CHANGE [<scope>] FIELD <list> [FOR <exp>] Example: CHANGE ALL FIELD ZIP FOR ZIP = '90045' RECORD: 00001 ZIP: 90045 CHANGE? (Enter the characters to be changed and hit return. Add new data at the TO prompt, or hit return to go to the next appro- priate record.) *EXIT *CLEAR > CLEAR -- closes all database in use, releases all memory vari- ables, and Selects Primary work area. > CLEAR GETS -- commands dBASE to forget all GET statements still active without erasing the screen. *EXIT *COPY > COPY -- Copies the database in use or only its structure TO another file. COPY will create the TO <file> if it does not yet exist, but will destroy an already existing file of that name. Will not copy records marked for deletion. Command has three forms: COPY TO <file> [<scope>] [FIELD <list>] [FOR <exp>] COPY TO <file> [SDF] [DELIMITED [WITH <delimiter>]] [FOR <exp>] COPY TO <file> STRUCTURE [FIELD <list>] > COPY TO <file> STRUCTURE EXTENDED -- special form of COPY creates database whose records represent the structure of file in use. *EXIT *COUNT > COUNT -- Counts the number of records in database in use which satisfy specified criteria. Default value is COUNT all records. Syntax: COUNT [scope] [FOR <exp>] [TO <memvar>] Example: COUNT NEXT 25 FOR GRADE > 'B-' TO DEANLST *EXIT *CREATE > CREATE [<filename>] -- Creates a new database. User will be prompted for file structure. > CREATE <newfile> FROM <oldfile> EXTENDED -- creates database whose structure is determined by the data contained in the records of <oldfile>. (Used with COPY STRUCTURE EXTENDED.) *EXIT *DELETE > DELETE FILE <file> -- deletes specified file. > DELETE [<scope>] [FOR <exp>] -- marks record(s) for deletion. Records marked for deletion (with *) will not be erased until the PACK command is given. Records may also be marked for deletion by record number. Examples: DELETE ALL FOR COMPANY = 'ZMB' DELETE RECORD 15 *EXIT *DISPLAY > DISPLAY FILES [ON <disk drive>] [LIKE <skeleton>] -- lists files on drive. For example, DISPLAY FILES ON B LIKE *.MEM. > DISPLAY [<scope>][<field list>][FOR<exp list>][OFF] -- displays records of file in use. > DISPLAY STRUCTURE -- displays field names, types, lengths, and decimals (structure) of file in use. > DISPLAY MEMORY -- display names,types, and values of all cur- rently defined memory variables. > DISPLAY STATUS -- lists databases in use, system date, indexes in use, and current parameters SET. *EXIT *DO *ENDCASE *ENDDO *LOOP > DO <file> -- opens and executes specified command file. > DO WHILE <exp> -- used in command files to open a structured loop. Commands in between are executed so long as the DO WHILE <exp> is found to be true. Syntax: DO WHILE <exp> Example: USE MAILLIST <commands> DO WHILE .NOT. EOF [LOOP] ? NAME <commands> ? PHONE ENDDO SKIP ENDDO > LOOP -- causes command file to jump processing back to the DO WHILE command. Example: USE MAILLIST DO WHILE .NOT. EOF IF ZIP = '90005' SKIP LOOP ENDIF ? NAME ? PHONE SKIP ENDDO *CASE > DO CASE -- used in command file to choose one and only one of several possible execution paths. OTHERWISE clause optional, and executes when no CASE is true. ENDCASE is needed to close command. Example: USE MAILLIST ACCEPT "WHICH MENU OPTION DO YOU PREFER?" to Choice DO CASE CASE Choice = '1' DO Clabels CASE Choice = '2' DO Cappend CASE Choice = '3' DO Cedit OTHERWISE Return ENDCASE *EXIT *EDIT > EDIT [<record number>] -- enables selective editing of database in use by record number. Requests record number if not supplied. When edit of particular record has been com- pleted, ctrl-W brings back EDIT's record number prompt (ENTER RECORD #:). To terminate EDIT mode, answer record number query with a return. *EXIT *EJECT > EJECT -- causes printer to do a form feed (page eject) if PRINT is SET ON or FORMAT is SET TO PRINT. When using @ SAY commands for direct page formatting, EJECT will zero out line and column counters. *EXIT *ERASE > ERASE -- clears the screen. In interactive mode, "." prompt will appear at top left corner of screen. *EXIT *FIND > FIND <cstring> -- when using indexed files, positions to first record indexed by <cstring>. *EXIT *GO *GOTO > GO or GOTO -- positions to a specific record or place in the database in use. Also positions to record number contained in memory variable. Syntax: GO or GOTO [RECORD <n>],<n>,[TOP],[BOTTOM], or <memvar> *EXIT *HELP dBASE II ON-LINE HELP FACILITY Below you will find a list of all dBASE commands. Each entry in this list corresponds to an entry in the HELP file proper. In the latter, you will find a brief synopsis of each command as well as a picture of that command's correct syntax. Please remember, however, that HELP file information is limited, and is only meant to cut down on the number of trips you will have to make to the dBASE II Manual. To access the entry for the dBASE command (or other Help File entry) you wish to review, simply respond to the dBASE "." prompt by entering HELP <name of command> and a return (e.g. HELP CREATE <cr>). dBASE will access the information you wish to see, and then return you to the "." prompt so you can go right back to work. In some cases the entry will take up more space than is provided by a single screen. (This is one of them.) To bring up the next screen of information, just hit any console character: this will tell dBASE to stop "WAITING." If you wish to exit the HELP file before viewing an entire entry, simply hit ESCape. >>>> Type 'HELP dBASE' for other <<<<<< >>>>> important information <<<<< > ? -- displays an expression, variable, or field. > ?? -- displays an expression list without a preceeding line feed. > @ -- displays user formatted data on screen or printer. > ACCEPT -- allows input of character strings into memory vari- ables. > APPEND -- append information from another dBASE II database or files in Delimited or System Data format. > BROWSE -- full screen window viewing and editing of database. > CANCEL -- cancels command file execution. > CHANGE -- Non-Full-Screen edit of fields of database. > CLEAR -- closes databases in use and releases current memory variables. > CONTINUE -- continue the searching action of a LOCATE command. > COPY -- creates a copy of an existing database. > COUNT -- counts the number of records in file which meet some criteria. > CREATE -- creates new database. > DELETE -- deletes a file or marks records for deletion. > DISPLAY -- display files, database records or structure, memory variables, or status. > DO -- executes command files or structured loops in same. > EDIT -- initiates edit of records in a database. > EJECT -- ejects a page on the printer. > ELSE -- alternate path of command execution within IF. > ENDCASE -- terminates a CASE command. > ENDDO -- terminates DO WHILE command. > ENDIF -- terminates an IF command. > ENDTEXT -- terminates a TEXT command. > ERASE -- clears the screen. > FIND -- positions to record corresponding to key in index file. > GO or GOTO -- positions to specific record or place in file. > HELP -- access help file overview or specific help file entry. > IF -- allows conditional execution of commands. > INDEX -- creates an index file. > INPUT -- allows input of expressions into memory variables. > INSERT -- insert new record in database. > JOIN -- joins output of two databases. > LIST -- lists files, database records or structure, memory variables, and status. > LOCATE -- find a record that fits a condition. > LOOP -- skips to beginning of DO WHILE command. > MODIFY -- create and/or edit command file or modify structure of existing database. > NOTE or * -- allows insertion of comments in command file. > PACK -- erases records marked for deletion. > QUIT -- exits dBASE and returns to operating system. > READ -- initiates full-screen editing of formatted screen by accepting input into variables accessed with @ GET. > RECALL -- erases mark for deletion. > REINDEX -- update existing index file. > RELEASE -- eliminates unwanted memory variables and releases memory space. > REMARK -- permits display of any characters. > RENAME -- rename a file. > REPLACE -- change information in record(s) or entire database field by field. > REPORT -- format and display a report of information. > RESET - reset operating system after placing new disk in drive. > RESTORE -- retrieves memory variables stored in MEM file. > RETURN -- ends a command file. > SAVE -- copies current memory variables to disk file. > SELECT -- switches between USE files in PRIMARY and SECONDARY areas. > SET -- sets dBASE control parameters. > SKIP -- position forwards or backwards in database. > SORT - write copy of database sorted on one of the data fields. > STORE -- creates memory variables. > SUM -- compute and display the sum of database field(s). > TEXT -- allows output of block of text from a command file. > TOTAL -- creates summary copy of database combining information from specified fields of records meeting some criteria. > UPDATE -- allows batch updates of a database. > USE -- specifies database to USE until next USE command is issued. > WAIT -- suspends command file processing until user input received. >>>>> Other key words <<<<< (e.g. type 'HELP RUNTIME' ) FULL SCREEN NEW ERRORS GLOSSARY FUNCTIONS INSTALL DBASE LIMITS RUNTIME *EXIT *IF *ELSE *ENDIF > IF -- in command file, IF structure permits conditional exe- cution of commands. ELSE clause is optional. Syntax: IF <exp> Example: IF STATE = 'CA' <any statements> DO INSTATE (CMD file) [ELSE ELSE <any statements>] DO OUTSTATE (CMD file) ENDIF ENDIF *EXIT *INDEX > INDEX ON <exp> TO <index file> -- creates an index file for database in use based upon content of field(s) or portion(s) of field(s) specified by the <exp> or index <key>. *EXIT *INPUT > INPUT ["<cstring prompt>"] TO <memvar> -- prompts user to enter numeric or logical information into the designated memory variable. Example: INPUT 'Prompt user for input' TO X Prompt user for input: 12 <cr> [user input, 12, stored to X] . ? X 12 *EXIT *INSERT > INSERT [[BEFORE] [BLANK]] -- inserts a record into the database in use immediately after or -- with BEFORE -- before the current record. Presents user with data entry format for use file unless BLANK record is requested. *EXIT *JOIN > JOIN -- creates a new database by combining the records of files in use in Primary and Secondary areas. Records are added where FOR <exp> evaluates as True. Command must be executed from primary area. Default value for FIELD <list> is ALL. Syntax: JOIN TO <file> FOR <exp> [FIELDS <field list>] Example: . USE NAMES . SELECT SECONDARY . USE MAILLIST . SELECT PRIMARY . JOIN TO NAMEJ FOR LAST <> S.LAST *EXIT *LIST > LIST FILES [ON <disk drive>] [LIKE <skeleton>] -- lists all files on designated disk. Default to logged disk. Example: LIST FILES ON C LIKE *.FRM > LIST [<scope>][<field list>] [FOR <exp list>][OFF] -- displays records of file in use. Default value is ALL records. Example: LIST NEXT 25 NAME, PHONE FOR CONTRIB > 100 (i.e., NAME and PHONE of next 25 who contributed more than $100.) > LIST STRUCTURE -- displays structure of database in use. > LIST MEMORY -- lists names and values of all currently defined memory variables. > LIST STATUS -- lists databases open, indexes in use, system date, and current parameters SET. *EXIT *LOCATE *CONTINUE > LOCATE [<scope>] FOR <exp> -- finds first record of database for which FOR <exp> is True. Use CONTINUE to find next such record. (User may manipulate record before resuming search with CONTINUE.) . LOCATE ALL FOR ZIP >= '95000' .AND. ZIP < '96000' RECORD: 00123 . DISPLAY . CONTINUE RECORD: 00232 *EXIT *MODIFY > MODIFY STRUCTURE -- allows user to alter the structure of database in use. This command will destroy all data in the file in use. (To alter structure without loss of data, use COPY STRUCTURE, USE, and APPEND as illustrated below.) . USE NAMES . COPY STRUCTURE TO TEMP . USE TEMP . MODIFY STRUCTURE -- no data lost since file is empty . APPEND FROM NAMES -- brings data into modified database . DELETE FILE NAMES . USE -- close TEMP in order to: . RENAME TEMP TO NAMES > MODIFY COMMAND <file> -- calls dBASE's text editor and brings up or creates designated file. Primarily used for creating and editing command (.PRG), text (.TXT), and format (.FMT) files, but may be employed as a simple full screen word processor. *EXIT *NOTE > NOTE or * -- permits the insertion of comments into a command file. Comments following NOTE or * will not be read when file is executed. *EXIT *PACK > PACK -- erases records marked for deletion in database in use. If index files are in use, they will be automatically updated. *EXIT *QUIT > QUIT [TO <com file list>] -- terminates dBASE and returns control to operating system. Optionally calls programs from system level. *EXIT *READ > READ -- initiates full-screen mode for entry or editing of variables. The Full-screen prompts and window are created by @ SAY commands with GET phrases. Command file fragment: STORE ' ' TO name STORE ' ' TO phone @ 4,4 SAY 'Name' GET name @ 6,4 SAY 'Phone' GET phone PICTURE '(###)###-####' READ *EXIT *RECALL > RECALL [<scope>] [FOR <exp>] -- reinstates record(s) marked for deletion within use file. Default value is current record. *EXIT *REINDEX > REINDEX -- allows update of index files not automatically 'reindexed' after alteration of database file. Example: . USE MAILLIST INDEX INDEXA . APPEND [append operations performed] . SET INDEX TO INDEXB,INDEXC . REINDEX *EXIT *RELEASE > RELEASE -- erases unwanted memory variables and opens memory space for further use. (<skeleton> uses ? to mask any single character, * to mask all remaining characters. Syntax: RELEASE [<memvar list>], or [ALL] RELEASE ALL LIKE <skeleton> RELEASE ALL EXCEPT <skeleton> Examples (where N, N1, N2, N10, V7 are variables in use): RELEASE ALL LIKE N? [N10 and V7 will remain] RELEASE ALL LIKE N?? [V7 will remain] RELEASE ALL EXCEPT ?1* [N1 and N10 will remain] *EXIT *REMARK > REMARK -- permits the display of any characters. In command file character entry is output. Example: . REMARK abracadabara!!! abracadabara!!! *EXIT *RENAME > RENAME <file> TO <new filename> -- renaming of file in DOS directory. Unless otherwise indicated, dBASE assumes that file type is DBF. Example: . RENAME REVIEW.FRM TO REVIEW2.FRM *EXIT *REPLACE > REPLACE -- allows user to replace contents of specified fields of database in use. If index file is keyed on field targeted for update, index in use will be automatically updated. Default <scope> is current record. Syntax: REPLACE [<scope>] <field> WITH <exp> [,<field2> WITH <exp2>][FOR <exp>] Example: . USE MXPROJ . REPLACE ALL COST WITH COST * 6.1 FOR ITEM = 'ELEC' *EXIT *REPORT > REPORT -- used for creating a Report Form File (FRM) for dis- playing specified information from a database in a user- defined format. Outputs results to screen or printed page. Syntax: REPORT [FORM <form file>] [<scope>][TO PRINT] [FOR <exp>] [PLAIN] *EXIT *RESET > RESET [<drive>] -- use this command after changing disks on any drive other than that containing dBASE. Command resets the DOS bit map, allowing uninterrupted operation of dBASE program. Close all files before issuing a RESET. *EXIT *RESTORE > RESTORE FROM <file> [ADDITIVE] -- retrieves and activates the set of memory variables previously SAVEd to a memory file. ADDITIVE allows you to keep currently defined variables intact; otherwise they are lost. *EXIT *RETURN > RETURN -- may be used in a command file to return control to the command file which called it or to dBASE "." prompt if user called it. *EXIT *SAVE > SAVE TO <file> [ALL LIKE <skeleton>] or [ALL EXCEPT <skeleton>] -- copies all memory variables currently in use, or only those specified by <skeleton>, to designated memory (MEM) file. <skeleton> uses ? to mask any single characters and * to mask all remaining characters. Examples (where N1, N2, N10, V1, V2, V10 are current variables): . SAVE TO NUMBER ALL LIKE N* [saves N1, N2, N10] . SAVE TO NUMBER ALL LIKE N? [saves N1, N2] . SAVE TO NUMBER ALL EXCEPT ?1* [saves N2, V2] *EXIT *SELECT *PRIMARY *SECONDARY > SELECT [PRIMARY / secondary] -- allows user to move between the two work areas dBASE provides, thus permitting user to work with two databases simultaneously and maintain record pointers in both. Primary area is active upon bringing up dBASE. *EXIT *SET > SET -- sets dBASE control parameters. Syntax: SET <parameter> [ON or OFF] SET <parameter> TO <option> All SET commands are listed below in alphabetic order: NOTE that some SETs are of the (ON/OFF) type, and others require some user option to be given. Default value of ON/OFF SET commands is indicated by uppercase of ON or OFF in each listing. Example: SET BELL [ON/off] - default value is ON. > SET ALTERNATE [OFF/on] -- ON sends all screen output (except full-screen) to a disk file. (Must be preceeded by SET ALTERNATE TO <file> command). OFF shuts off output to file. > SET BELL [ON/off] -- ON rings when invalid data is entered or data field boundary is passed. OFF suspends ringing. > SET CARRY [OFF/on] -- ON repeats data in current record from previous record when using APPEND in Full-screen mode. OFF leaves field blank. > SET COLON [ON/off] -- ON displays colons to bound input vari- ables when using Full-screen display. OFF suspends display of colons. > SET CONFIRM [OFF/on] -- ON disables automatic skipping to next field when current field is filled while in Full-screen mode. OFF requires a wait for <return> before going to next field. > SET CONSOLE [ON/off] -- ON sends all output to screen. OFF suspends all output to screen. System will appear dead. > SET DEBUG [OFF/on] -- ON sends output created by ECHO and STEP options to printer. OFF sends this output to the screen. > SET DELETED [OFF/on] -- ON disables dBASE from FINDing or processing records marked for deletion with any command allowing a <scope>, e.g., LIST, DISPLAY, COUNT. OFF enables dBASE to see all records. > SET ECHO [OFF/on] -- ON enables monitoring of command file execution by echoing all commands to screen. OFF sends no report on execution. > SET EJECT [ON/off] -- ON causes REPORT command to perform a form-feed (page eject) before sending report output to printer. OFF disables the page eject. > SET ESCAPE [ON/off] -- ON allows user to abort execution of command file by hitting ESCape key. OFF disables ESC key interrupt. > SET EXACT [OFF/on] -- ON requires exact matches in any compari- son of character strings (in FOR <exp>, FIND commands, etc.). OFF allows matches between character strings of different lengths (in this order): 'ABCDEF'= 'ABC'. > SET INTENSITY [ON/off] -- ON enables inverse video or dual intensity in Full-screen operations (if allowed by hard- ware). OFF disables these features. > SET LINKAGE [OFF/on] -- ON enables movement of record pointers in both PRIMARY and SECONDARY areas, by commands which allow a <scope>, i.e., downward movement only. OFF suspends pointer linkage. > SET PRINT [OFF/on] -- ON sends output to printer. OFF stops printer output. > SET RAW [OFF/on] -- ON DISPLAYs and LISTs records without inserting spaces between fields; OFF inserts an extra space between fields. > SET SCREEN [ON/off] -- ON enables Full-screen operation for APPEND, EDIT, INSERT, READ, and CREATE commands. > SET STEP [OFF/on] -- ON aids debugging of command file by halting execution after dBASE performs each command. OFF does not halt execution. > SET TALK [ON/off] -- ON sends results of command execution to screen. OFF suppresses additional screen output. > SET ALTERNATE TO [<file>] -- creates a disk file with .TXT extension for saving screen output. SET ALTERNATE TO closes the .TXT file. > SET COLOR TO <n1,n2> -- sets color or CRT attribute of terminal output on IBMPC, Victor, TI Professional, and IBMPC compa- tible terminals. <n1> indicates desired color or attri- bute of dim/reverse video, <n2> the desired color or attribute of normal display. For possible <n> values, see "Change Summary." > SET DATE TO <xx/xx/xx> -- stores a string to system date, but does not perform date validation. > SET DEFAULT TO <drive> -- makes specified drive the drive where dBASE will look for files when instructed. > SET F<n> TO <'new value'> -- stores 'new value' in buffer of function key <n> of IBM PC, TI Professional, Victor, and IBM PC compatible terminals. See "Change Summary" addenda for default values. > SET FORMAT TO <SCREEN/print> -- SCREEN sends output from @ SAY commands to screen. PRINT sends formatted output to printer. > SET FORMAT TO [<format file>] -- opens .FMT file which dBASE will use to format screen for READ, APPEND, EDIT, INSERT, CREATE, @ SAY commands. SET FORMAT TO closes any open .FMT file. > SET HEADING TO <cstring> -- saves <cstring> internally and prints it as the Report header line. > SET INDEX TO <index file list> -- sets up index files for use with corresponding database. First .NDX file in list will be engaged as the active index; all other index files will be automatically updated to reflect any changes to the database. > SET MARGIN TO <n> -- sets left hand margin of printer to <n> columns. *EXIT *SKIP > SKIP [-] [<n>] -- moves record pointer up or down <n> records within the use file. Default value is +1. *EXIT *SORT > SORT ON <field> TO <file> [ASCENDING / descending] -- writes a new copy of the database in use with all records arranged in order. Uses ASCII value to determine the order (gener- ally Spaces, Numbers, Uppercase, Lowercase, then Symbols). SORT will not copy records marked for deletion. Default order is ASCENDING. Example: . USE MAILLIST . SORT ON ZIP TO MAILZIP DESCENDING *EXIT *STORE > STORE <exp> TO <memvar> -- takes the value of an expression and stores it to a memory variable. Example: . STORE 3 to NUMBER 3 . STORE NUMBER + 9 TO NUMBER2 12 . STORE 'HOWARD' TO NAME HOWARD . ? NUMBER+NUMBER2, ' ', NAME 15 HOWARD *EXIT *SUM > SUM -- computes and displays the sums of numeric field(s) of database in use. The <scope> option permits selection of the range of records to sum; FOR <exp> allows summation on particular criteria; TO <memvar> stores sums to the desig- nated memory variables. Default value of <scope> is ALL non-deleted records. Syntax: SUM <field> [,<field2>][<scope>][TO <memvar list>] [FOR <exp>] Examples: . USE SHOPLIST [fields are ITEM, NUMBER purchased, COST of item] . SUM COST * NUMBER FOR ITEM = 'food' . SUM NUMBER FOR ITEM = 'hardware' TO HARD . SUM NUMBER, NUMBER*COST FOR ITEM = 'hardware' .AND. COST >9.00 *EXIT *TEXT > TEXT -- in command files, allows the output of text information without use of the @ SAY or ? commands. dBASE will read everything as text until it encounters an ENDTEXT command. *EXIT *TOTAL > TOTAL -- creates a summary version of an indexed or pre-sorted database by copying only records with a unique <key>. Specified <key> must be key to the index or the key upon which database is already sorted.) Records with duplicate keys are removed. All records with the same <key> can have their numeric fields totalled in the TO database by using the FIELDS option. Syntax: TOTAL TO <file> ON <key> [FIELDS <field list>] *EXIT *UPDATE > UPDATE -- allows batch update of presorted or indexed database by drawing information FROM designated database (pre- sorted on same <key>). Keys of records in USE and FROM databases are compared for match. dBASE can then ADD the numeric fields of the FROM database to corresponding fields in the USE database. It can also REPLACE character or numeric fields of USE database with the contents of corresponding fields of the FROM file. Syntax: UPDATE FROM <file> ON <key> [ADD <field list>][REPLACE <field list> or <field> WITH <field list>][RANDOM] *EXIT *USE > USE <file> [INDEX <index file list>] -- specifies the database to be used for all succeeding operations. USE automatic- ally closes previous file in USE. INDEX option overlays the database with an index to give it an apparent order. Other indexes named will be kept current. *EXIT *WAIT > WAIT [TO <memvar>] -- used in command files to suspend dBASE operation until keyboard input of a single character. WAIT TO <memvar> will automatically store keyboard input into a memory variable, and may thus be used to direct the action of a command file process. *EXIT *FUNCTIONS > @ -- @(<cstring1>,<cstring2>) -- AT function yields an integer whose value is the character number in <cstring2> which begins a substring identical to <cstring1>. > * -- deleted record function evaluates as a logical True if current record has been marked for deletion. > # -- record number function reports value of integer corres- ponding to current record number. > ! -- !(<cstring>) -- uppercase function yields <cstring> in uppercase characters. > $ -- $(<cstring>,<start>,<length>) -- substring function forms a character string from the specified part of another string. > CHR -- CHR(<numeric exp>) -- yields the ASCII character equi- valent of the <numeric exp>. e.g., ? CHR(7) rings the bell. > DATE() -- returns the character string that contains the System Date in format xx/xx/xx. > EOF -- end-of-file function evaluates as True if an attempt has been made to go past the last record in a database. > FILE -- FILE(<file>) -- existence function evaluates as a logi- cal True if <file> exists on the default drive, and as a logical False if it does not. > INT -- INT (<numeric exp>) -- integer function truncates every- thing to right of decimal to form an integer. > LEN -- LEN(<cstring>) -- length function returns the number of characters in <cstring>. ? LEN('HELLO') > RANK -- RANK(<cstring>) -- returns the (ASCII numeric) value of the leftmost character of <cstring>. > STR -- STR (<numeric exp>, <width> [,<decimals>]) -- string function converts a numeric expression into a character string. > TEST -- TEST(<exp>) -- used with ? and IF, test function determines if <exp> is valid and parsable. A valid <exp> returns a value # 0; an invalid <exp> a value of 0. > TRIM -- TRIM(<cstring>) - trim function removes trailing blanks from <c-string>. ? TRIM(FIRST) + ' ' + LAST. > TYPE -- TYPE(<exp>) -- function yields a one-character string that contains a 'C','N','L', or 'U' if the <exp> is of type Character, Numeric, Logical, or Undefined. > VAL -- VAL(<cstring>) -- value function converts a character string made of numerals into a numeric expression. *EXIT *LIMITS LIMITATIONS AND CONSTRAINTS number fields/record 32 max number chars/record 1000 max number records/database 65535 max number chars/cstring 254 max accuracy numeric fields 10 digits largest number 1.8 x 10**63 approx smallest number 1.0 x 10**-63 approx number current memvars 64 max number chars/command line 254 max number <exp>s in SUM command 5 max number chars in REPORT header 254 max number fields in REPORT 24 max number chars in index key 99 max number of pending GETS 64 max number of files open at one time 16 max length of .PRG file unlimited *EXIT *ERRORS BAD DECIMAL WIDTH FIELD -- Re-enter decimal part of field defin- ition. BAD FILE NAME -- Syntax error in filename. BAD NAME FIELD -- Redefine field name while in CREATE. BAD TYPE FIELD -- Must be C (character), N (numeric), or L (logical). BAD WIDTH FIELD -- Redefine size of data field between 1 and 255. *** BEYOND STRING -- Rewrite substring ($) with correct parameter. CANNOT INSERT - THERE ARE NO RECORDS IN DATABASE FILE -- Use the APPEND command instead. CANNOT OPEN FILE -- Check the existence or integrity of MEM or HEX file. COMMAND FILE CANNOT BE FOUND -- Check spelling and default drive. DATA ITEM NOT FOUND -- Rewrite REPLACE command, or check file structure for correct field name. DATABASE IN USE IS NOT INDEXED -- FIND is permitted only on indexed databases. DIRECTORY IS FULL -- The operating system's directory cannot hold anymore files. DISK IS FULL -- No space left on disk. Use DELETE FILE to erase some unneeded files. END OF FILE FOUND UNEXPECTEDLY -- The database in USE is not in the correct format. dBASE isn't sure that file is a DBF file. "FIELD" PHRASE NOT FOUND -- Rewrite CHANGE command line. FILE ALREADY EXISTS -- Delete the unwanted file before RENAME. FILE DOES NOT EXIST -- Use DISPLAY FILE LIKE *.* to be sure the file exists. FILE IS CURRENTLY OPEN -- Type a USE or CLEAR command to close the file. FORMAT FILE CANNOT BE OPENED -- Check the integrity of FMT file. FORMAT FILE HAS NOT BEEN SET -- Set the appropriate FMT file. ILLEGAL DATA TYPE -- SORT cannot sort on a logical field. ILLEGAL GOTO VALUE -- Record addressed must be > 0 and < 65535. ILLEGAL VARIABLE NAME -- Only alphanumerics and colons are allowed in variable and field names. Redefine variable or field name. INDEX DOES NOT MATCH DATABASE -- dBASE cannot match the index key with the database. Try another index file. INDEX FILE CANNOT BE OPENED -- Check spelling or index the data- base. JOIN ATTEMPTED TO GENERATE MORE THAN 65,534 RECORDS -- The FOR clause allows too many joined output records. Make it more stringent. KEYS ARE NOT THE SAME LENGTH -- UPDATE command requires identical keys. MACRO IS NOT A CHARACTER STRING -- Variables expanded by a macro (&) must be character (C) in content. MORE THAN 5 FIELDS TO SUM - SUM is limited to 5 fields at a time. MORE THAN 7 INDEX FILES SELECTED -- Maximum number of index files open is seven. Fewer will give faster performance. NESTING LIMIT VIOLATION EXCEEDED -- Cannot have more than 16 command files open at once. NO EXPRESSION TO SUM -- SUM command needs a numeric expression to sum. NO "FOR" PHRASE -- Rewrite JOIN command with correct syntax. NO "FROM" PHRASE -- Rewrite UPDATE command with correct syntax. NO FIND - More a diagnostic than an error message. dBASE couldn't find the key. Record # has been set to 0. NON-NUMERIC EXPRESSION -- SUM command needs a numeric expression to sum. NOT A dBASE II DATABASE -- DBF file opened was not created by dBASE. "ON" PHRASE NOT FOUND -- Rewrite UPDATE or INDEX command with correct syntax. OUT OF MEMORY FOR MEMORY VARIABLES -- Reduce the number or size of memory variables. RECORD LENGTH EXCEEDS MAXIMUM SIZE (OF 1000) -- Reduce size of some fields or create a second database on a common key. RECORD NOT IN INDEX -- Index file was not updated after a record was added. Reindex the file. RECORD OUT OF RANGE -- Record number was called that is greater than number of records in database. If the index file is not current, reindex the file. SORTER INTERNAL ERROR, NOTIFY SCDP -- Internal error, contact ASHTON-TATE for support. SOURCE AND DESTINATION DATA TYPES ARE DIFFERENT - Check that data types are both numeric, both character, or both logical. *** SYNTAX ERROR *** -- dBASE doesn't understand the command. SYNTAX ERROR IN FORMAT SPECIFICATION -- @ SAY GET PICTURE command is improperly set up. SYNTAX ERROR, RE-ENTER -- INPUT, ACCEPT, REPORT require syntacti- cally correct entry. May expect a different data type. "TO" PHRASE NOT FOUND -- Rewrite command with correct syntax. TOO MANY CHARACTERS -- (Non-Full-Screen only.) Data entered exceeds allotted length of field. TOO MANY FILES ARE OPEN -- Only 16 files of all types (Command, FMT, NDX) may be open at one time. TOO MANY MEMORY VARIABLES -- There is a maximum of 64 current memory variables. TOO MANY RETURNS ENCOUNTERED -- Probably an error in the structure of a command file. Check the number and location of RETURNs. "WITH" PHRASE NOT FOUND -- Rewrite REPLACE command with correct syntax. UNASSIGNED FILE NUMBER -- Internal error. Contact ASHTON-TATE for support. If HELP was used, DBASEMSG.TXT file may be missing from drive. *** UNKNOWN COMMAND -- Check spelling. dBASE doesn't understand command. VARIABLE CANNOT BE FOUND -- Need to create the variable, or check the spelling of the field name in database structure. ***ZERO DIVIDE -- There was an attempt to divide a <numeric exp> by zero. *EXIT *RUNTIME A new Ashton-Tate product, dBASE II RunTime, has been designed to help applications developers market software packages written in dBASE II. dBASE II RunTime will allow end-users to run programs written in dBASE II without having access to the source code. Thus, combined with RunTime, you can market your dBASE II applications without fear of having your program altered in any way by those who purchase it. Moreover, Ashton-Tate is prepared to help you reach the market- place: Ashton-Tate publishes a catalog of existing dBASE II applications, and now provides software developers with a variety of other services which will help you in your marketing efforts. If you develop a dBASE II application you wish to market, contact Ashton-Tate's RunTime Coordinator for information about how to proceed. For information about applications that will run on your dBASE II system right now, ask for the Application Marketing Referral Service. *EXIT