Automate Testing and Demos with Form Input Capture

Enhanced Testing & Debugging

Benefit:

• Efficiency: By capturing and replaying form inputs, developers can automate repetitive testing tasks, saving time and reducing manual effort.
• Accuracy: Replaying captured inputs ensures consistent test conditions, helping to identify and resolve issues more reliably.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Developers can create detailed test scripts that cover various scenarios, improving the overall quality of the application.

Technical Expansion:

• FORM SET SAVE ON: This command initiates the capture of keystrokes during FORM INPUT. All keystrokes, including characters, numbers, transmit keys, and control characters, are stored in a script file called zfmkeys.
• FORM SET SAVE OFF: This command terminates the capture process and closes the script file. The captured keystrokes can then be reviewed and analyzed.
• FORM SET INPUT ON: This command starts replaying the captured keystrokes from the zfmkeys script file. Zim reads the keystrokes from the script file instead of the keyboard, simulating the exact input sequence.
• FORM SET INPUT OFF: This command stops the replay process, allowing developers to control the duration and scope of the test.

Engaging Product Demonstrations

Benefit:

• Interactive Demos: By replaying captured form inputs, developers can create dynamic demonstrations that showcase the application’s functionality in a realistic and engaging manner.
• Consistency: Replaying inputs ensures that each demonstration is consistent, highlighting the application’s features without variation.
• Ease of Use: Developers can easily set up and execute demonstrations, making it simpler to present the application to potential users and stakeholders.

Technical Expansion:

• Script File Management: The zfmkeys script file can be copied and managed using operating system commands, allowing developers to create multiple scripts for different demonstration scenarios.
• Terminal Independence: The script file format is independent of the terminal used to create it, enabling demonstrations on various terminal types without compatibility issues.
• Platform Considerations: While the script file format is dependent on the platform, developers can manage and replay scripts within the same platform environment, ensuring smooth demonstrations.

Example Workflow

1. Capture Input:
   • Execute FORM SET SAVE ON before starting the application to initiate capturing.
   • Proceed with the application, capturing all keystrokes during FORM INPUT.
   • Execute FORM SET SAVE OFF after the application terminates to close the script file.
2. Replay Input:
   • Execute FORM SET INPUT ON to start replaying the captured keystrokes.
   • Watch the application simulate the input sequence, demonstrating its functionality.
   • Execute FORM SET INPUT OFF to stop the replay.

Caveats

• Avoid Overlapping Commands: Ensure that capturing and replaying commands are not executed simultaneously to prevent conflicts and data loss.
• End Replay Appropriately: Always terminate the replay process once the script file has been exhausted to maintain control over the demonstration.

By leveraging these features, Zim application developers can enhance their testing and debugging processes, create engaging product demonstrations, and ultimately deliver higher-quality applications.