SORT-MERGE/XL General User's Guide (32650-90883)

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Key Data Item A key is that section of the record that SORT-MERGE/XL uses as a
reference to arrange the desired data in a defined order.
List File The list file issues error messages and prompts during interactive sessions while
using SORT-MERGE/XL.
Localizable That quality of software or documentation that facilitates changes to the
punctuation characters, key words, and command names to fit a particular native
language so that applications can be used in different countries. The user interface is in
the user's native language depending upon country.
Major Key In SORT-MERGE/XL, the first key data item specified with the >KEY
command is considered the major key and is the first key used for sorting or merging
operations.
MERGE/XL A subsystem of the MPE XL operating system for the 900 Series HP 3000
that allows you to merge two or more previously sorted files into a new file containing the
merged data.
Multi-Programming Executive With Extended Large Addressing (MPE XL) MPE
XL is the operating system for the 900 Series HP 3000 computers. It consists of programs
that handle exchanges between Hewlett-Packard terminals, printers, storage devices,
memory, and executing programs. A disc-based operating system, MPE XL manages all
system resources and coordinates the execution of all programs running on the system.
Native Language Support(NLS) MPE XL utilities and intrinsics that facilitate the
development of applications for users in different countries. NLS includes such features as
currency symbol handling and character translation.
Native Mode The native run-time environment of MPE XL. In Native Mode source code
has been compiled into the native instruction set of the 900 Series HP 3000.
Octal The base eight numbering system, in which digits 0-7 are used. One octal
digit can be represented by three binary digits. Octal numbers are preceded by a percent
sign "%" (for example, %101 which is the octal representation for the character "A").
Operating System The software that allows the computer to operate. It consists of
programs such as basic file and I/O manipulators. All subsystems run upon the operating
system.
Output File The results of a sort or merge operation are sent to the output file. This file is
specified by using the >OUTPUT command.
Privileged Mode (PM) A mode of running in MPE XL that frees the user from most
system constraints.
Prompt File The prompt file asks you for input when the text file is the session terminal
but the list file is not.
Range All of the values that a function or word may have. For example, the range "A-Z"