Introduction


External file storage operations are similar to the file operations described in the previous chapter. You can store either program files or data files on the iPad and then retrieve them whenever they are needed. Storing programs and data using the external file storage operations also provides a way in which you can transfer or share your files with your computer.


Types of Files

You can create two types of files.
  • A program file is a copy you make of the contents of program memory.
  • A data file is a copy you make of the contents of a series of data registers.

After a file is stored externally, you must first load it back into the calculator's memory before you can use it.

Note:

There is one difference between a program file stored externally, and one stored in the calculator's file space. In the file space, a program does not have to be reloaded before you can use it.

File Names

When you create a file, you must specify a three-character name for the file. The name can include letters, numerals, and punctuation symbols (except for the colon character `: ` ).

You must identify a data file by using a + (plus sign) as the first character of the file name (for example, +SQ). You cannot use + as the first character for the name of a program file. This lets the calculator distinguish between a program file and a data file.

When entering a file name, you can use the [ CLEAR ] key to erase the current name and start over.

Types of External File Operations

You can perform three types of external file operations. These are:
  • Writing (storing) a program or data file externally.
  • Reading (loading) a program or data file back into memory.
  • Verifying that the program or data in memory is identical to the external file. (Normally, you should verify a file after storing it externally. This ensures that the file was written properly.)


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