Using AutoScript
AutoScript is a tool designed to help you write PowerScript code
more quickly by providing a lookup and paste service inside the Script
view. It is an alternative to using the paste toolbar buttons or the
Browser—you do not need to move your hands away from the keyboard to
paste functions, events, variables, properties, and templates for
PowerBuilder TRY, DO, FOR, IF, and CHOOSE statements into your
script.
If you are not sure what the name or syntax of a function is or
what the names of certain variables are, AutoScript can show you a list
to choose from and paste what you need right into the script. If you can
remember part of the name, start typing and select Edit>Activate
AutoScript (or do nothing if automatic pop-up is turned on). If you
cannot remember the name at all, turn automatic pop-up on, place your
cursor in white space, and select Edit>Activate AutoScript.
Assign a shortcut key
If you plan to use AutoScript, assign a shortcut key to the
Activate AutoScript menu item. See Creating
shortcut keys.
Where you use AutoScript
You can use AutoScript in three different contexts:
-
When you can remember part of the name and you want AutoScript
to finish typing it for you or show you a list of
alternatives. -
When you cannot remember the name or you just want a list.
AutoScript options can help you narrow the list if you do not know
the name but you do know the type you are looking for. For example,
you can choose to see a list showing all variables, or only all
local variables. -
When you want a list of the properties and/or functions and
events that apply to an identifier followed by a dot.
For how to use AutoScript options, see Customizing AutoScript.
Two ways to use AutoScript
AutoScript can pop up a list automatically when you pause while
typing, or when you request it:
-
Turn automatic pop-up on to have AutoScript pop up the list or
complete what you are typing when you pause for a few seconds after
typing one or more characters or an identifier followed by a dot.
See Using automatic pop-up. -
Invoke AutoScript when you need it by pressing the shortcut
key you assigned to the Edit>Activate AutoScript menu item when
you have typed one or more characters or an identifier followed by a
dot. Pressing the shortcut key activates AutoScript only once. It
does not turn automatic pop-up on.
For how to paste an item from the pop-up window into a script, see
Using the AutoScript pop-up
window.