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*DBASE
HELP TEXT FILE DBASEMSG.TXT VERSION 1.12 FOR dBASE II v2.4
Copyright 1983 Ashton-Tate and RSP, Inc.
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 any of the following key words: (e.g. HELP NEW )
UTILITIES FULL-SCREEN LIMITS BACKUP
INSTALL NEW ERRORS CP/M
EXAMPLES FUNCTIONS DBASE HELP RUNTIME
(or any dBASE II command)
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 these:
DBASE.COM --main system program file
DBASEOVR.COM --all overlays and system messages
DBASEMSG.TXT --this HELP file (not necessary if you never
use HELP)
INSTALL.COM --terminal installation program (not necessary
after terminal is installed).
Other files on the disk (or on other disks included with the system)
are not essential but are useful as described below:
*UTILITIES
UTILITY FILES TO WORK WITH YOUR dBASE II SYSTEM:
STARTUP.CMD --this command file is intended to help you determine if
your terminal is properly installed. Type DO STARTUP
after bringing up dBASE.
SETS.CMD --this command file will restore dBASE to all the
default values of the SET parameters. You may modify
this file to restore your own list of parameters.
DATESYS.CMD --this command file will call an assembly language
routine to check a date for validity, and then set the
dBASE system date.
LABELS.CMD --this command file prints mailing labels.
NAMES.DBF --database used by LABELS.
CREATE.CMD --this command file creates a command file with the
usual and suggested command file documentation.
DATER.CMD --this command file demonstrates converting back and
forth between calendar date and julian date.
DATETEST.HEX --fast assembly-language date checking routine which is
called by several of the example programs.
ZIP.COM --a program run from CP/M which will greatly speed up
the development of screens for data input and display.
ZIPIN.COM --the terminal installation program for ZIP; run this
program if the terminal does not appear correct while in
ZIP.
ZSCRN.OVL --part of ZIP.
DGEN.OVL --part of ZIP that generates dBASE files.
*EXAMPLES
Some files that are present with dBASE II are EXAMPLE files (occassionally
on a separate disk). These files are intended to be useful as they are, and
are internally documented well enough for you to customize them to suit your
own purposes. Each suite of programs listed is progressively more involved,
so you can start at a level comfortable to you and work up. The master
program of each group is marked with a '>'.
TICKLE FILE MANAGEMENT FILES (CARDFILE)
> CMAIN.CMD TEXT.DBF
CPRINT.CMD KEYWORD.NDX
APPECARD.CMD TICKLE.NDX
TICKLE.FRM EDITCARD.FMT
CHECKBOOK MANAGEMENT FILES
> CHXMENU.CMD CHXINPUT.FMT
CHXDEPOS.FMT CHXBOOK.MEM
CHECKS.DBF DEPOSITS.DBF
INVENTORY MANAGEMENT FILES
> IMAIN.CMD INVENT.DBF
ISETUP.CMD I'BYNMBR.NDX
INVMAINT.CMD I'BYDESC.NDX
INVQUAN.CMD INV'CONS.FRM
INVREAD.CMD INV'PRTR.FRM
INVRPRT.CMD
PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT FILES
> EMAIN.CMD EMPLOYEE.DBF
ESETUP.CMD EMPSCRN.FMT
EMP-ENTR.CMD EMP-UPD.FMT
EMP-UPD.CMD EMP-PRT.FRM
EMP-TERM.CMD EMP-CONS.FRM
EMP-RPRT.CMD E'BYNMBR.NDX
EMPLOYEE.MEM E'BYNAME.NDX
*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 the character under the cursor
<Rubout> or <DEL> deletes the character to the left of cursor
ctrl-Y blanks out current field to the right of the cursor
ctrl-V toggles between overwrite and INSERT modes
ctrl-W saves any changes made and returns to dBASE (Superbrain ctrl-O)
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 asnd returns to dBASE
ctrl-W writes all changes to disk and returns
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 dBASE
ctrl-Q ignores all changes and returns
IN APPEND MODE
<enter> when cursor is in first position of first field will terminate
APPEND command
ctrl-W writes record to disk and moves to next record
ctrl-Q ignores current record and returns to dBASE
CONTROL KEY STROKES WHEN NOT IN FULL SCREEN
ctrl-P toggles your printer ON and OFF
ctrl-R repeats the last executed dBASE command
ctrl-X clears the command line without executing command
ctrl-H backspace
ctrl-M acts exactly like a carriage return
*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, INSTALL.COM, called from your
system as INSTALL. Since you may diagnose your terminal's status at any
time by running STARTUP.CMD (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
*BACKUP
*CP/M
CP/M OPERATING SYSTEM
This information is applicable to CP/M version 2.2. For most computers
using this operating system, you will need to do the following:
I. Operating System
A. Copying the system disk --
1. Place CP/M system disk on drive A and a blank disk on
drive B.
2. Format the blank disk with the format utility provided on your
CP/M system disk if necessary. Copy the system tracks to the blank
disk by running the SYSGEN.COM program (or similar program)
provided on your CP/M system disk.
3. Use PIP to bring the PIP.COM over to the blank disk.
The syntax is as follows:
A>PIP B:=A:PIP.COMÆOVÅ
4. Put the new disk containing PIP and SYSGEN.COM on drive A and dBASE
system disk on drive B, then type the following:
A>DIR B:
5. Check to see that the following files are displayed:
DBASE.COM DBASEOVR.COM
DBASEMSG.TXT INSTALL.COM
STARTUP.CMD
6. Type the following:
A> <ctrl-C>
A>PIP A:=B:*.*ÆOVÅ
B. CP/M limitations that affect dBASE
1. Disk limitations --
a) With CP/M system disk on drive A, type the following:
A>STAT B:
The disk capacity remaining indicates how much storage
in kilobytes is available for dBASE.
b) The following equation will allow you to calculate the
number of dBASE records which can be stored on the disk:
Kilobytes of storage dBASE records will use on disk
= ((recordsize * number of records) + 521) / 1024
C. CP/M error messages that may occur --
The expression "x:" represents the disk drive name.
1. "BDOS ERROR ON x: BAD SECTOR"
An error in reading or writing the disk. Possible
problem may be:
a) disk format is different from the one the disk
drive is designed to read.
b) disk was not inserted properly in the disk
drive.
c) disk drive malfunctioned when reading the disk.
d) disk is bad due to excessive wear or foreign
particles on the surface of the disk.
2. "BDOS ERROR ON x: SELECT"
This error occurs when selecting a disk drive not
available to the computer.
3. "BDOS ERROR ON x: READ ONLY"
This error occurs when there is an attempt to write on a
disk that has been given a read-only status. A disk is
assigned a read-only status when the disk drive door has
been opened or when a write-protect tab has been placed
on it. If the disk does not have a write-protect
tab on it, you can use the warm start procedure
(control-C) to reset the disk when in CP/M, or the RESET
command when in dBASE.
*EXIT
*NEW
> New commands and changes to dBASE II version 2.4
New commands:
HELP -- user aid command.
REINDEX -- realigns and updates existing index file.
TEXT -- displays multiple lines of text, terminated by ENDTEXT.
RANK( ) -- function; returns ASCII value of first character.
Supplemented Commands:
APPEND,INSERT,EDIT,CREATE -- can use a format file for screen control.
BROWSE -- can be given a list of fields to work with.
DISPLAY STATUS -- shows databases/indexes in use and SET settings.
READ & REPLACE -- can be directed not to perform disk accesses
when non-key data is changed.
RELEASE -- can release subsets of memory variables.
RESTORE -- can restore additively to existing memory variables.
SAVE -- can save subsets of memory variables.
SET RAW ON -- eliminates extra spaces in DISPLAY and ? commands.
UPDATE -- replace clause can have WITH phrases.
*EXIT
*?
*??
> ? -- Evaluates and displays the value of an expression. In command
file (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 the screen or printer at specified
x,y coordinates (x = line, y = column ).
Syntax: @ <coords> ÆSAY <exp> ÆUSING '<picture>'ÅÅ
ÆGET <variable> ÆPICTURE '<picture>'ÅÅ
@ 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 Æ'<prompt cstring>'Å TO <memvar>
. ACCEPT "What is the worst sin?" to SIN
What is the worst sin?: Æuser's response stored to SINÅ
. ? SIN
Æuser's response displayedÅ
*EXIT
*APPEND
> APPEND FROM <file> ÆFOR <exp>Å or
> APPEND FROM <file> ÆSDFÅ ÆDELIMITEDÅ ÆFOR <exp>Å
-- 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, i.e. empty, 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 ÆFIELDS <field list>Å -- 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 Æ<scope>Å FIELD <list> ÆFOR <exp>Å
. CHANGE ALL FIELD ZIP FOR ZIP = '90045'
RECORD: 00123
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 appropriate record.)
*EXIT
*CLEAR
> CLEAR -- Closes all database in use, releases all memory variables,
and Selects Primary work area.
> CLEAR GETS -- makes dBASE forget about all GET statements still
active, but 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.
Syntax: COPY TO <file> Æ<scope>Å ÆFIELD <list>Å ÆFOR <exp>Å
COPY TO <file> ÆSDFÅ ÆDELIMITED ÆWITH <delimiter>ÅÅ ÆFOR <exp>Å
COPY TO <file> STRUCTURE ÆFIELD <list>Å
*EXIT
*COUNT
> COUNT -- Counts the number of records in database file in use.
Syntax: COUNT Æ<scope>Å ÆFOR <exp>Å ÆTO <memvar>Å
e.g., COUNT NEXT 25 FOR GRADE > 'B-' TO DEANLST
*EXIT
*CREATE
> CREATE Æ<filename>Å -- Creates a new database file. User will be prompted
for file structure.
*EXIT
*DELETE
> DELETE FILE <filename> -- deletes named file.
> DELETE Æ<scope>Å ÆFOR <exp>Å -- 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.
e.g., DELETE ALL FOR COMPANY = 'ZMB'
DELETE RECORD 15
*EXIT
*DISPLAY
> DISPLAY FILES ÆON <disk drive>Å ÆLIKE <skeleton>Å -- lists
files on drive.
e.g., DISPLAY FILES ON B LIKE *.CMD
> DISPLAY Æ<scope>Å ÆFOR <exp>Å Æ<exp list>Å ÆFIELDS <field list>Å ÆOFFÅ
-- displays variables, or records of file in use.
e.g., DISPLAY NEXT 10 FOR PHONE = '415'
> DISPLAY STRUCTURE -- displays field names, types, lengths, and decimals
(structure) of file in use.
> DISPLAY MEMORY -- displays names, types, and values of all currently
defined memory variables.
> DISPLAY STATUS -- lists which databases are open, the 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> Commands in between are executed so long as the
ÆLOOPÅ DO WHILE <exp> is found to be True.
<commands>
ENDDO
e.g. USE MAILLIST
DO WHILE .NOT. EOF
? NAME
? PHONE
SKIP
ENDDO
LOOP causes command file to jump processing back to the DO WHILE
command.
e.g. 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.
e.g. USE MAILLIST
ACCEPT "WHICH MENU OPTION DO YOU PREFER?" to CHOICE
DO CASE
CASE Choice = '1'
DO Labels
CASE Choice = '2'
DO Addnames
CASE Choice = '3'
DO Edit
OTHERWISE
QUIT
ENDCASE
*EXIT
*EDIT
> EDIT Æ<record number>Å -- enables selective editing of database in use by
record number. Requests record number if not supplied. When edit of
particular record has been completed, Ctr-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 ÆRECORD <n>Å, <n>, ÆTOPÅ, ÆBOTTOMÅ, or <memvar>
*EXIT
*HELP
dBASE II ON-LINE HELP FACILITY
Below you will find a list of all dBASE commands. This HELP file contains 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, merely respond to the dBASE "." prompt by entering HELP
<name of command> and a return (e.g. HELP CREATE <cr>). The desired
information will appear 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 enter any character at the "WAITING". You
may end the help message by typing ESC twice.
>>>>>>>>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 variables.
> 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 -- close databases in use and releases all 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 database which meet some criteria.
> CREATE -- creates new structured database.
> DELETE -- deletes a file or marks records for deletion.
> DISPLAY -- displays files, database records or structure, memory
variables, or status.
> DO -- executes command files or structured loops in command files.
> EDIT -- allows edit of records in database.
> EJECT -- ejects a page on the printer.
> ELSE -- alternate path of command execution within IF.
> ENDCASE -- terminates a CASE command.
> ENDDO -- terminates a DO WHILE command.
> ENDIF -- terminates an IF command.
> ENDTEXT -- terminates a TEXT command.
> ERASE -- clears the screen.
> FIND -- positions to record corresponding to a key on indexed files.
> GO or GOTO -- positions to a specific record in database.
> HELP -- accesses help file list or entry.
> IF -- allows conditional execution of commands.
> INDEX -- creates an index file.
> INPUT -- allows input of expressions into memory variables.
> INSERT - insert new record within a 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 -- used for creating and editing command files and
modifying 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 CP/M.
> READ -- displays data and prompting information in full-screen mode.
> RECALL -- erases mark for deletion.
> REINDEX -- updates an 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 a record field by field.
> REPORT -- format and display a report of information.
> RESET -- let operating system know that disk has been swapped.
> RESTORE -- retrieves memory variables stored in files.
> 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 field.
> TEXT -- allows output of block of text from a command file.
> TOTAL -- creates summarized copy of database combining information from
specified fields 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 EXAMPLES' )
UTILITIES FULL-SCREEN LIMITS BACKUP
INSTALL NEW ERRORS CP/M
EXAMPLES FUNCTIONS DBASE HELP RUNTIME
*EXIT
*IF
*ELSE
*ENDIF
> IF <exp> -- in command file, permits conditional execution of
<any statements> commands. ELSE clause is optional.
ÆELSE
<any statements>Å e.g., IF STATE = 'CA'
ENDIF DO INSTATE (command file)
ELSE
DO OUTSTATE (command file)
ENDIF
*EXIT
*INDEX
> INDEX ON <cstring> TO <index filename> -- creates an index file for
database in use based upon designated index 'key', i.e., the
<cstring>. Usually index will be 'keyed' on a field name.
*EXIT
*INPUT
> INPUT Æ"<cstring>"Å TO <memvar> -- prompts user to enter numeric or
logical information into an already created memory variable.
e.g., . INPUT 'Prompt user for input' to X
Prompt user for input: 12 <cr>
Æuser input has been stored to XÅ
? X
12
*EXIT
*INSERT
> INSERT ÆÆBEFOREÅ ÆBLANKÅÅ -- inserts a record into the database in
use immediately after or -- with BEFORE -- before the current record.
Presents user with data entry format for file in use 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 on FIELD <list> to all.
Syntax: JOIN TO <file> FOR <expression> ÆFIELDS <field list>Å
e.g., . USE NAMES
. SELECT SECONDARY
. USE MAILLIST
. SELECT PRIMARY
. JOIN TO NAMEML FOR LAST <> S.LAST
*EXIT
*LIST
> LIST FILES ÆON <disk drive>Å ÆLIKE <skeleton>Å -- lists all files on
designated disk. Default to logged disk.
e.g., . LIST FILES ON C LIKE *.CMD
> LIST Æ<scope>Å ÆFOR <exp>Å Æ<exp list>Å ÆFIELDS <list>Å ÆOFFÅ -- displays
records of file in use. Default value is all records.
e.g., . 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 file in use.
> LIST MEMORY -- lists names and values of all currently defined memory
variables.
> LIST STATUS -- indicates which database files are open, indexes in use, and
current parameters SET.
*EXIT
*LOCATE
*CONTINUE
> LOCATE Æ<scope>Å 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.)
e.g., . 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 and APPEND.)
e.g., . USE NAMES
. COPY STRUCTURE TO TEMP
. USE TEMP
. MODIFY STRUCTURE -- no data lost since file is empty
. APPEND FROM NAMES -- brings in data
. COPY TO NAMES -- destroy file with old structure
. USE NAMES -- opens new file
. DELETE FILE TEMP
> MODIFY COMMAND <command file> -- provides full screen facility for
creating and editing command (.CMD), text (.TXT), and format (.FMT)
files.
*EXIT
*NOTE
> NOTE or * -- permits the insertion of comments into a command file.
Comments following NOTE or * in file will not be read or executed.
*EXIT
*PACK
> PACK -- erases records marked for deletion in database in use. If indexes
are in use, they will be brought up to date.
*EXIT
*QUIT
> QUIT ÆTO <com file list>Å -- exits dBASE and returns user to operating
system; will start up system level programs as option.
*EXIT
*READ
> READ -- used in command files to enter full-screen mode for entry or
editing of variables. The Full-screen prompts and window are created
by @ SAY commands with GET phrases.
Format 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 Æ<scope>Å ÆFOR <exp>Å -- reinstates record(s) marked for deletion
within database in use. Default value is current record.
*EXIT
*REINDEX
> REINDEX -- allows update of index files not automatically 'reindexed'
after alteration of database file.
e.g., . USE MAILLIST INDEX ZIP
. APPEND
Æappend operations performedÅ
. SET INDEX TO name
. REINDEX
*EXIT
*RELEASE
> RELEASE -- eliminates unwanted memory variables and opens memory space for
further use. (<skeleton> uses ? to mask any single character, * to
mask all remaining characters.
Syntax: RELEASE Æ<memvar list>Å, or ÆALLÅ
RELEASE ALL LIKE <skeleton>
RELEASE ALL EXCEPT <skeleton>
e.g., where N, N1, N2, N10, V7 are variables in use.
RELEASE ALL LIKE N? Æ N10, V7, will remainÅ
RELEASE ALL LIKE N?? Æ V7 will remainÅ
RELEASE ALL EXCEPT ?1* Æ N1, N10 will remainÅ
*EXIT
*REMARK
> REMARK -- permits the display of any characters. In command file
character entry is output.
. REMARK abracadabara!!!
abracadabara!!!
*EXIT
*RENAME
> RENAME <file name> TO <new file name> -- permits renaming of file in CP/M
directory. Unless otherwise indicated, dBASE assumes that file type
is DBF.
. RENAME REVIEW.CMD TO REVIEW.BAK
*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 Æ<scope>Å <field> WITH <exp> Æ,<field2> WITH <exp2>Å
ÆFOR <exp>Å
e.g., . USE MXPROJ
. REPLACE ALL COST WITH COST*1.1 FOR ITEM = 'ELECTRIC'
*EXIT
*REPORT
> REPORT -- used for creating a Report Form file (FRM) for displaying
specified information from a database in a user-defined format.
Outputs results to screen or printed page.
Syntax: REPORT ÆFORM <form file>Å Æ<scope>Å ÆTO PRINTÅ ÆFOR <exp>Å ÆPLAINÅ
*EXIT
*RESET
> RESET Æ<drive>Å -- use this command after changing discs on any drive
other than that containing dBASE, resets the CP/M bit map, allowing
uninterrupted operation of dBASE program. Close all files before
issuing a RESET.
*EXIT
*RESTORE
> RESTORE FROM <file> ÆADDITIVEÅ -- 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> ÆALL LIKE <skeleton>Å ÆALL EXCEPT <skeleton>Å
-- 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.
e.g., where N1, N2, N10, V1, V2, V10 are current variables.
. SAVE TO NUMBER ALL LIKE N* Æsaves N1, N2, N10Å
. SAVE TO NUMBER ALL LIKE N? Æsaves N1, N2Å
. SAVE TO NUMBER ALL EXCEPT ?1* Æsaves N2, V2, Å
*EXIT
*SELECT
*PRIMARY
*SECONDARY
> SELECT ÆPRIMARY / secondaryÅ -- 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> ÆON or OFFÅ
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.
e.g., SET BELL ÆON/offÅ -- default value is ON.
> SET ALTERNATE ÆOFF/onÅ -- 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 ÆON/offÅ -- ON rings when invalid data is entered or data field
boundary is passed. OFF suspends ringing.
> SET CARRY ÆOFF/onÅ -- ON repeats data in current record from previous
record when using APPEND in Full-screen mode. OFF leaves field
blank.
> SET COLON ÆON/offÅ -- ON displays colons to bound input variables on Full-
screen display. OFF suspends display of colons.
> SET CONFIRM ÆOFF/onÅ -- ON disables automatic skipping to next field when
current field is filled while in Full-screen mode. OFF requires a
wait for <cr> before going to next field.
> SET CONSOLE ÆON/offÅ -- ON sends all output to screen. OFF suspends all
output to screen. System will appear dead.
> SET DELETED ÆOFF/onÅ -- 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 DEBUG ÆOFF/onÅ -- ON sends output created by ECHO and STEP options to
printer. OFF sends this output to the screen.
> SET ECHO ÆOFF/onÅ -- ON enables monitoring of command file execution by
echoing all commands to screen. OFF sends no report on execution.
> SET EJECT ÆON/offÅ -- ON causes REPORT command to perform a form-feed
(page eject) before sending report output to printer. OFF disables
the page eject.
> SET ESCAPE ÆON/offÅ -- ON allows user to abort execution of command file by
hitting ESCape key. OFF disables ESC key interrupt.
> SET EXACT ÆOFF/onÅ -- ON requires exact matches in any comparison of
character strings (in FOR <exp>, FIND commands, etc.). OFF allows
matches between character strings of different lengths,
e.g., 'ABC' = 'ABCDEFG'.
> SET INTENSITY ÆON/offÅ -- ON enables inverse video or dual intensity in
Full-screen operations (if allowed by hardware). OFF disables these
features.
> SET LINKAGE ÆOFF/onÅ -- 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 ÆOFF/onÅ -- ON sends output to printer. OFF stops printer
output.
> SET RAW ÆOFF/onÅ -- ON DISPLAYs and LISTs data from fields without a
space inserted between. OFF shows columns of data with spacing
between.
> SET SCREEN ÆON/offÅ -- ON enables Full-screen operation for APPEND, EDIT,
INSERT, READ, and CREATE commands.
> SET STEP ÆOFF/onÅ -- ON aids debugging of command file by halting
execution at each command in file. OFF does not halt execution.
> SET TALK ÆON/offÅ -- ON displays results of command execution on screen.
OFF suspends some output to screen.
> SET ALTERNATE TO Æ<file>Å -- creates a disk file with .TXT extension for
saving screen output. SET ALTERNATE TO closes the .TXT file.
> 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 FORMAT TO <SCREEN / print> -- SCREEN sends output from @ SAY commands
to screen. PRINT sends formatted output to printer.
> SET FORMAT TO Æ<format file>Å -- 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 to be used with
database in use. Other index files will be closed. SET INDEX TO
closes all index files.
> SET MARGIN TO <n> -- sets the left hand margin of printer to <n> columns.
*EXIT
*SKIP
> SKIP Æ-Å Æ<n>Å -- moves record pointer up or down <n> records within the
database in use. Default value is +1.
*EXIT
*SORT
> SORT ON <field> TO <file> ÆASCENDING / descendingÅ -- writes a new copy of
the database in use with all records arranged in order. Uses ASCII
value to determine the order (generally Spaces, Numbers, Uppercase,
Lowercase, then Symbols). SORT will not copy records marked for
deletion. Default order is ASCENDING.
e.g., . 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.
e.g., . 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 designated memory variables. Default value of
<scope> is ALL non-deleted records.
Syntax: SUM <field> Æ,<field2>Å Æ<scope>Å ÆTO <memvar list>Å ÆFOR <exp>Å
e.g., . USE SHOPLIST Æfields are ITEM, NUMBER purchased, COST of itemÅ
. 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
*ENDTEXT
> 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 > ÆFIELDS <field list>Å
*EXIT
*UPDATE
> UPDATE -- allows batch update of pre-sorted 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 > ÆADD <field list>Å
ÆREPLACE <field list> or <field> WITH <field list>Å
*EXIT
*USE
> USE <file> ÆINDEX <index file list>Å -- specifies the database to be used
for all succeeding operations. USE automatically 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 ÆTO <memvar>Å -- 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 gives value of integer corresponding to
current record number.
> ! -- !(<cstring>) - upper case function yields <cstring> in upper case
characters.
> $ -- $(<cstring>,<start>,<length>) - substring function forms a character
string from the specified part of another string.
> CHR -- CHR(<numeric expression>) - yields the ASCII character equivalent
of the <numeric expression>. e.g. ? CHR(7) rings 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 logical True if
<file> exists on the default drive, and as a logical False if it does
not.
> INT -- INT(<numeric expression>) -- integer function rounds down to the
nearest whole number
> 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 expression>,<width>Æ,<decimals>Å) - string function
converts a numeric expression into a character string.
> VAL -- VAL(<char string>) - value function converts a character string
made of numerals into a numeric expression. ? VAL('12345')
> TRIM -- TRIM(<cstring>) - trim function removes trailing blanks from
<cstring>. ? TRIM('HELLO ')+' THERE'
> 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.
> TEST -- 0 = TEST(<exp>) - function to determine if <exp> is
valid and parsable. <exp> could be a numeric expression,
another function, a field name, or any combination (but
not a dBASE command word). A valid <exp> returns a 1.
*EXIT
*LIMITS
LIMITATIONS AND CONSTRAINTS
number of fields per record 32 max
number of characters per record 1000 max
number of records per database 65535 max
number of characters per character string 254 max
accuracy of numeric fields 10 digits
largest number 1.8 x 10**63 approx
smallest number 1.0 x 10**-63 approx
number of memory variables 64 max
number of characters per command line 254 max
number of expressions in SUM command 5 max
number of characters in REPORT header 254 max
number of fields in REPORT 24 max
number of characters in index key 99 max
number of pending GETS 64 max
number of files open at one time 16 max
length of command file to execute unlimited
*EXIT
*ERROR
BAD DECIMAL WIDTH FIELD -- Reenter decimal part of field definition.
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 database.
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 -- The variable to be expanded by a macro
(&) must be a character string.
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. 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 syntactically
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 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 is 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 expression by
zero.
*EXIT
*RUNTIME
dBASE II RunTime is a product from Ashton-Tate designed to assist the
application developer to market a software package written in dBASE II.
dBASE II RunTime features the ability to encrypt dBASE II programs and
to run only the application as designed by the developer. Ashton-Tate
publishes a catalog of existing applications written in dBASE II, and
provides the software developer with other aids to the marketing effort.
If you develop an application using dBASE II that you wish to market,
contact Ashton-Tate's RunTime Coordinator for all the information on how to
proceed. For information on applications that will run on your dBASE II
system right now, ask for the Application Marketing Referral Service.
*EXIT
«eof»