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 press F8 (or do nothing if automatic pop-up is turned on). If you cannot remember the name at all, place your cursor in white space and press F8.
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”.
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 F8 when you have typed one or more characters or an identifier followed by a dot, or when the cursor is in white space. Pressing F8 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”.
