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Output_Aux_File

See Also: Direct_Output, Make_File

Purpose

Outputs an auxiliary file (.FD or .DEF).

.DEF files are designed to work with the embedded database. We recommend using the native tools of the database you are working with to maintain table definitions.

Syntax

Output_Aux_File {type} For {file-num} [Number {aux-file-num}] [To {path-name}]

Argument Explanation

  • type: The type of file to create: DF_AUX_FILE_FD or DF_AUX_FILE_DEF.
  • file-num: File number for an existing file, or a handle to a new structure.
  • aux-file-num: The number that will be used in the .FD or .DEF to represent a new file.
  • path-name: The pathname for the auxiliary file. This can be a file or any destination valid for sequential output (e.g., LST: for printer).

What It Does

This function will create an FD or DEF file for file-num. If file-num is a handle to a file being created, aux-file-num will specify the file-list number that the file has or will have; otherwise, it is ignored.

Example

Open 11
Output_Aux_File DF_AUX_FILE_DEF For 11 To "c:\temp\emp.def"

This example creates a .DEF file called emp.def for File 11 and places it in the C:\TEMP folder.

Notes

  • See the Direct_Output command for a description of valid destinations for sequential output.
  • file-num must be open before executing this command.