SORT-MERGE/XL General User's Guide > Chapter 1 Introduction To SORT-MERGE/XL

The SORT/XL Process

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The procedure for using the SORT/XL subsystem is explained below. By invoking just a few commands you can convert the types of data mentioned above, from random listings, into productive and useful data.

The following example shows accessing SORT/XL, identifying the file to be sorted, identifying the file where the sorted data is to be stored, identifying the item(s) within the file to be sorted, and initiating the sort operation.


  :SORT
  >INPUT filename
  >OUTPUT filename
  >KEY 1,10
  >END

Taking this example line by line:


  :SORT

Specifying SORT at the MPE XL colon prompt (:) takes you into the SORT/XL subsystem and displays the subsystem chevron prompt (>). The ability to run a program, such as SORT.PUB.SYS, without explicitly using the MPE XL :RUN command is called an Implied :RUN. You can use the :RUN command (:RUN SORT.PUB.SYS) or simply enter :SORT to access the subsystem.


  >INPUT filename

Specifies invoking the SORT/XL >INPUT command and identifies the file you want sorted.


  >OUTPUT filename

Specifies invoking the SORT/XL >OUTPUT command and identifies the name of the file where the sorted data is to be stored. The file identified can be either a new or an existing file.


  >KEY 1, 10

Specifies invoking the >KEY command and identifies the location of the data you want sorted. For example, 1 identifies the location of the data (the first character position of each line in the file) and 10 identifies the length of the data (in characters).


  >END

Specifies invoking the >END command. The >END command indicates to the subsystem that all commands have been entered and the sort specified should be performed. After the sort operation is completed the data is stored in the specified file, the subsystem is exited, and you are returned to the MPE XL colon prompt (:).

The sorted data is accessed through the text processing system you used to create the files containing data to be sorted. The EDIT/V text editing subsystem is supplied with the 900 Series HP 3000. Check with your System Manager to determine what editors are available on your system.

There are other SORT/XL commands you can use to manipulate data. Refer to Chapter 6 for additional information on commands.

>How Can You Sort?

The MERGE/XL Process

The SORT/XL Process

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