Syntax Conventions

Command syntax is represented pictorially.
CHARACTER OR REPEAT I NG
COMMAND SECONDARY SYNTAX SYNTAX
MNEMON I C KEYWORD ELEMENT ELEMENT
RECOMMENDED OPT I
ONAL
PATH TERMINATOR
cul14e
Figure 5-1. Command Syntax Figure
n
Ovals enclose command mnemonics. The command mnemonic must be entered exactly as
shown.
w
Circles and ovals surround secondary keywords or special numbers and characters. The
characters in circles and ovals are considered reserved words and must be entered exactly as
shown. See Iable 5-2.
w
Rectangles contain the description of a syntax element defined in
‘lhble
5-l.
n A loop above a syntax element indicates that the syntax element can be repeated.
w
Solid lines represent the recommended path.
n Dotted lines indicate an optional path for bypassing secondary keywords or using alternate
units.
n Arrows and curved intersections indicate command path direction.
n
Semicolons are the recommended command terminators. Using semicolons makes programs
easier to read, prevents command misinterpretation, and is recommended by IEEE Standard
728.
Note
Uppercase is recommended for entering all commands unless otherwise noted.
5-2
Programming Commands