OpenVMS User's Manual

This document is the OpenVMS User's Manual, published by Compaq Computer Corporation in April 2001.

Purpose and Audience: It is intended for all OpenVMS users, describing how to utilize the Compaq OpenVMS operating system and its components. The information is applicable to all computers running OpenVMS Alpha Version 7.3 and OpenVMS VAX Version 7.3.

Content Overview: The manual is structured into 19 chapters, 4 appendices, and a glossary, moving from basic to more complex concepts. Key topics covered include:

• Getting Started: OpenVMS concepts, logging in and out, password management, and obtaining system help.
• Command Language (DCL): Interacting with the system using DIGITAL Command Language, including command construction, parameters, qualifiers, and key sequences.
• File and Directory Management: Storing, organizing, creating, modifying, displaying, deleting, protecting, and printing files and directories.
• Communication: Using Mail and Phone utilities.
• Text Editing and Formatting: Detailed guides for the EVE and EDT interactive text editors, and the DIGITAL Standard Runoff (DSR) text-formatting facility.
• Data Management: Utilizing the Sort/Merge utility for sorting and merging files.
• Device Handling: Managing private tapes and disks.
• System Configuration: Defining and using logical names and symbols.
• Programming with DCL: Introduction to and advanced techniques for writing command procedures, using lexical functions, and managing processes and batch jobs.
• Security: Controlling access to resources, understanding protection codes, and auditing access.
• Reference Information: Customizing EVE, character sets, annotated command procedures, and terminal keys.