Introduction

Language Structure

IB Statements

File System

Comet 32 Runtime

Index

Using the Automatic Help Feature

The Automatic Help feature combines the Invoke HELP mnemonic with a specific entry in the #NOVA control file.

Here are the basic steps to follow:

  1. Using Comet utility #43 (NOVAMNT), add an entry to the #NOVA control file in the Auto Help field.

    This entry is one of the standard action codes supported by the NOVA system, including:

    Code Action
    H Run the Comet Help System
    E Enter a subprogram
    S Shell to DOS
    T Display a text string

    Also see Working with the #NOVA Control File.

  2. Within an Internet Basic program, add the (Invoke HELP) mnemonic prior to the INPUT statement where the automatic help action is to take effect.

    Example: 

         PRINT (0) (Invoke HELP)  ! Set the automatic help flag

     INPUT (0) WHATEVER$      ! Perform the automatic help action
                              ! as specified in the #NOVA control
                              ! file, then return to this INPUT
                              ! statement
The (Invoke HELP) mnemonic sets a flag within Comet. At the next INPUT statement in the program, this flag is examined; if the flag is on, Comet reads the #NOVA control file and takes the action specified in the "automatic help" record.

The result is a "pop-up" help feature, where a help action will occur automatically at a given INPUT prompt without the operator pressing one of the NOVA function keys.

The (Invoke HELP) control remains in effect only for the following INPUT statement (i.e., the auto help flag is turned off when automatic help is invoked). To use this feature repeatedly, you must use the (Invoke HELP) mnemonic repeatedly.

NOVA Help System