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The !empties Command: Check for Empty Cells

Syntax: !empties [force_delete_all]
This command will search through the hierarchy rooted in the current cell, and list the empty cells. Only the names of cells that have no content (objects or subcells) in either electrical or physical mode are listed. This test is performed automatically when a new cell is opened for editing/viewing, though this can be suppressed by setting the NoCheckEmpties variable.

Instances of empty cells are shown on-screen as a small highlighting box at the placement location. If empty cells are found, the Empty Cells pop-up appears, which provides a means for their deletion. The deletion capability is available in the Xiv feature set as well, in a rare instance where database changes are allowed. A list of the empty cells is shown, each followed by ``yes'' or ``no'', where ``yes'' implies that the cell will be deleted. Initially, all listings will be ``no'', but these can be changed by clicking on them. The Delete All button sets all entries to ``yes'', and the Skip All button sets all entries to ``no''. Pressing Apply will actually perform the deletions.

However, is is not possible to delete instances of empty cells that are contained in a parent cell with the IMMUTABLE flag set. Cells referenced by an instance in an immutable parent will not be deleted, however instances in non-immutable parents within the hierarchy will be deleted.

If cells are deleted, the search for empty cells is repeated, and the pop-up will be updated if any are found. Additional cells may become empty due to the previous deletions.

If the literal ``force_delete_all'' argument is given, all empty cells in the hierarchy, including those that become empty due to prior deletions, will be deleted (if possible). The pop-up will not appear.

The current cell, if empty or if it becomes empty, will not be deleted.


next up previous contents index
Next: The !area Command: Measure Up: Layout Information Previous: The !diffcells Command: Create   Contents   Index
Stephen R. Whiteley 2024-09-29