## Using Expressions and Variables: Introduction

An expression is a user defined condition used with PC-DMIS's flow control commands. Using flow control statements you can then test these conditions in your part program and if the condition is met or not, you can determine what action PC-DMIS takes. | Expressions are an important to making PC-DMIS accomplish your specific tasks. Using expressions in conjunction with flow control commands, you can unleash even more of PC-DMIS's powerful functionality. This section explains what how to create and use expressions inside PC-DMIS's Edit window. When working with expressions, you should place PC-DMIS's Edit window into Command mode. This will allow you to view the Edit window code directly.

The following major topics are covered in this section:

- Using Expressions in a Part Program

- Creating Expressions with the Expression Builder

- Using Variables with Expressions

- Understanding Expression Components

- Accessing a Report's Object Properties

- Accessing Information from a Constructed Scan Minimum Circle

If you're looking for information on Reporting Expressions, see the "About Report Expressions" in the "Reporting Measurement Results" section.