PURPOSE: The TERMINAL command interrupts the processing of a Command Module (CM) or System File (SF) until a command is interactively entered at the terminal. Execution then continues at the next line of the SF or CM.
TERMINAL
NOTES: The TERMINAL command is used as a statement in a Command Module or System File. It allows an interactive command to be entered from the terminal during the execution of a program. Program execution resumes after ACCENT R has processed the interactive command.
This command provides a break point in program execution. The break point can be used as a debugging tool or as an opportunity to input whatever command is appropriate to the current session. TERMINAL could also be used as the last branch in a multiple choice options list when none of the previous branches apply.
Caution should be exercised in entering the interactive command for which the program was interrupted. If it is typed incorrectly, ACCENT R does not permit reentry, but continues processing with the next Command Module or System File line.
Entering a DEFINE or MODIFY command in response to a TERMINAL command (while in a Command Module) will invoke the subcommand level. It is then possible to enter either text or subcommands. Control returns to the Command Module when returning to command level with SAVE or STOP.
If the TERMINAL command is in a System File, and a DEFINE or MODIFY command is to be entered when control passes to the terminal, DISABLE SF DATA INPUT to prevent following lines in the System File from being taken as input at the subcommand level.
Interactive entry of the ENTER command in response to TERMINAL causes a parallel situation. If working from a Command Module, then field values can be entered interactively, and control returns to the CM only when returning to command level by ending data entry. If working from a System File, however, ACCENT R will go to the next line of the System File looking for field values unless SF DATA INPUT has been disabled.
SEE ALSO: Command Modules, and System Files