Calculators

There are two calculators available: the standard calculator that you can use to perform calculations and enter values into fields, and the Expresso Calculator that is displayed when you click the Expresso button or click in a numeric field that allows expressions. The Expresso Calculator extends the standard calculator to allow you to create expressions that generate values used in numerical fields.

Not all fields accept expressions. Expressions can include composition parameters as variables.

In the Expresso calculator, you can add comments to the expression, allowing you to document what an expression does—see Animation.

To display the calculator or the Expresso calculator:

1. Do the following:
   • Press Shift + click in a numeric field to display the normal calculator or the Expresso Calculator.
   • Press Alt + C at any point to display the normal calculator.
   • Right-click a numeric field that allows expressions and select Set Expression.
     

     The Expresso Calculator appears.

   • Shift + Alt + click a field that allows expressions. The Expresso Calculator appears.

     The standard calculator appears if there is no expression.

   Note

   If you use one of the last three methods and the calculator does not appear, the field cannot accept a value from the calculator. You must use an alternative method to enter the value.

To close the calculator:

1. Click the “x” box in the upper-right corner of the calculator.

To input a value from the calculator into a numerical field:

1. Shift + click in a numerical field. The calculator appears.
2. Type a new value into the calculator.
3. Click in the numerical field again or press Enter. The value is updated.