How to Use the Command 'xml2man' (with examples)

The xml2man command is a tool designed to convert MPGL (Markup for Processed Graphic Language) files into nroff man pages. Man pages are essential components of UNIX-like operating systems, providing detailed documentation of commands, services, or functions in a format that can be easily read by system users. This tool specifically compiles MPGL source code annotated in XML into the UNIX mdoc format, which is a highly readable and structured method for writing man pages.

Use Case 1: Compile an MPGL File to a Viewable Man Page

Code:

xml2man path/to/command_file.mxml

Motivation:

Sometimes, software developers or system administrators need to quickly generate a man page from an existing MPGL file for a command to ensure the documentation is up-to-date and easily accessible for users who rely on command-line help. By using xml2man, you can streamline the process of transforming your command documentation into a readable man format directly from an XML source file.

Explanation:

• xml2man: Invokes the xml2man command-line utility to start the conversion process.
• path/to/command_file.mxml: This is the file path to the MPGL file you want to convert. It contains XML-annotated content with details about the command, such as usage instructions, options, and examples. The tool parses this information and uses it to generate a corresponding man page.

Example output:

After running the command, the tool processes the command_file.mxml and produces a man page viewable using the man command. The result is typically shown in your terminal’s pager program, displaying sections like NAME, SYNOPSIS, and DESCRIPTION as provided in your MPGL file.

Use Case 2: Compile an MPGL File to a Specific Output File

Code:

xml2man path/to/service_file.mxml path/to/service_file.7

Motivation:

In instances where multiple documentation files are being created or maintained, it often becomes necessary to direct the output of a generated man page to a specific file. This is particularly useful in environments where structured file naming or organization is required, such as when maintaining a repository of documentation for numerous services.

Explanation:

• xml2man: The command to initiate the conversion.
• path/to/service_file.mxml: Refers to the MPGL source file containing the XML description of a service.
• path/to/service_file.7: This is the desired output file path, explicitly setting the destination for the compiled man page. The .7 suffix indicates that the man page is related to miscellanea, a common section for protocols, standards, file formats, and conventions.

Example output:

Executing the command creates a man page from service_file.mxml and saves it as service_file.7. You can open this file using the system’s man command to verify its contents and formatting.

Use Case 3: Compile an MPGL File to a Specific Output File, Overwriting if It Already Exists

Code:

xml2man -f path/to/function_file.mxml path/to/function_file.3

Motivation:

When updating documentation frequently or conducting iterative tests on the content, it becomes crucial to automate or simplify the process of overwriting existing files. This command usage ensures that the output file is always up-to-date without manual deletion, paving the way for a more efficient workflow in documenting various software functions.

Explanation:

• xml2man: Begins the conversion task.
• -f: The force option ensures that if the output file already exists—it will be overwritten without prompt, which is essential when repetitive updates are necessary.
• path/to/function_file.mxml: Identifies the location and filename of the source MPGL file for conversion.
• path/to/function_file.3: Specifies the output filename and path, with .3 indicating the section number in the manual for library and system calls.

Example output:

Once the command is executed, function_file.mxml is converted into function_file.3, replacing any existing file with the same name. Confirmation of updates can be made by viewing the finalized man page with your system’s man utility.

Conclusion:

The xml2man command offers a streamlined solution for converting MPGL files into user-friendly man pages, supporting efficient documentation practices. By utilizing the examples above, one can clearly understand how to generate, manage, and update man pages tailored for different situations, ensuring comprehensive and accessible documentation for commands, services, and functions.