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Basic Concepts   
   - Summary of Capabilities   
   + System Overview   
   - Shell   
      - Modes of Operation   
         - Interactive Operation   
            - Command Recall   
            - Command Completion   
            - Execution Modes   
            - Shell Keyboard Shortcuts   
         - One-Shot Operation   
      - Shell Pros and Cons   
   + Option Trees   
   + Commands   
Result Parameters   
XML Support   
Files   
System Operation   
Macros   
WebStart Intro   
Graphics   
X-Midas Interoperability   
Third-Party Compatibility   
Installation and Customization   
Running NeXtMidas Independently   
Glossary   


Shell

The command shell is the nucleus of the NeXtMidas system. It is the piece of software that receives and reacts to text commands from the user or interoperating software. Throughout the history of the Midas family, there have been numerous shells with various features, some welcomed and others despised. Suffice it to say that command shells tend to evoke strongly held opinions and that, on more than one occasion, dissatisfaction with the best available shell has been the impetus for creating an entirely new Midas variant.

For flexibility, NeXtMidas provides several shell operating modes, which are described in Modes of Operation. Advantages and disadvantages of the NeXtMidas shell are summarized in Pros and Cons.


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