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1 =================
1 =================
2 IPython reference
2 IPython reference
3 =================
3 =================
4
4
5 .. _command_line_options:
5 .. _command_line_options:
6
6
7 Command-line usage
7 Command-line usage
8 ==================
8 ==================
9
9
10 You start IPython with the command::
10 You start IPython with the command::
11
11
12 $ ipython [options] files
12 $ ipython [options] files
13
13
14 If invoked with no options, it executes all the files listed in sequence
14 If invoked with no options, it executes all the files listed in sequence
15 and drops you into the interpreter while still acknowledging any options
15 and drops you into the interpreter while still acknowledging any options
16 you may have set in your ipython_config.py. This behavior is different from
16 you may have set in your ipython_config.py. This behavior is different from
17 standard Python, which when called as python -i will only execute one
17 standard Python, which when called as python -i will only execute one
18 file and ignore your configuration setup.
18 file and ignore your configuration setup.
19
19
20 Please note that some of the configuration options are not available at
20 Please note that some of the configuration options are not available at
21 the command line, simply because they are not practical here. Look into
21 the command line, simply because they are not practical here. Look into
22 your configuration files for details on those. There are separate configuration
22 your configuration files for details on those. There are separate configuration
23 files for each profile, and the files look like :file:`ipython_config.py` or
23 files for each profile, and the files look like :file:`ipython_config.py` or
24 :file:`ipython_config_{frontendname}.py`. Profile directories look like
24 :file:`ipython_config_{frontendname}.py`. Profile directories look like
25 :file:`profile_{profilename}` and are typically installed in the :envvar:`IPYTHONDIR` directory,
25 :file:`profile_{profilename}` and are typically installed in the :envvar:`IPYTHONDIR` directory,
26 which defaults to :file:`$HOME/.ipython`. For Windows users, :envvar:`HOME`
26 which defaults to :file:`$HOME/.ipython`. For Windows users, :envvar:`HOME`
27 resolves to :file:`C:\\Users\\{YourUserName}` in most instances.
27 resolves to :file:`C:\\Users\\{YourUserName}` in most instances.
28
28
29 Command-line Options
29 Command-line Options
30 --------------------
30 --------------------
31
31
32 To see the options IPython accepts, use ``ipython --help`` (and you probably
32 To see the options IPython accepts, use ``ipython --help`` (and you probably
33 should run the output through a pager such as ``ipython --help | less`` for
33 should run the output through a pager such as ``ipython --help | less`` for
34 more convenient reading). This shows all the options that have a single-word
34 more convenient reading). This shows all the options that have a single-word
35 alias to control them, but IPython lets you configure all of its objects from
35 alias to control them, but IPython lets you configure all of its objects from
36 the command-line by passing the full class name and a corresponding value; type
36 the command-line by passing the full class name and a corresponding value; type
37 ``ipython --help-all`` to see this full list. For example::
37 ``ipython --help-all`` to see this full list. For example::
38
38
39 ipython --matplotlib qt
39 ipython --matplotlib qt
40
40
41 is equivalent to::
41 is equivalent to::
42
42
43 ipython --TerminalIPythonApp.matplotlib='qt'
43 ipython --TerminalIPythonApp.matplotlib='qt'
44
44
45 Note that in the second form, you *must* use the equal sign, as the expression
45 Note that in the second form, you *must* use the equal sign, as the expression
46 is evaluated as an actual Python assignment. While in the above example the
46 is evaluated as an actual Python assignment. While in the above example the
47 short form is more convenient, only the most common options have a short form,
47 short form is more convenient, only the most common options have a short form,
48 while any configurable variable in IPython can be set at the command-line by
48 while any configurable variable in IPython can be set at the command-line by
49 using the long form. This long form is the same syntax used in the
49 using the long form. This long form is the same syntax used in the
50 configuration files, if you want to set these options permanently.
50 configuration files, if you want to set these options permanently.
51
51
52
52
53 Interactive use
53 Interactive use
54 ===============
54 ===============
55
55
56 IPython is meant to work as a drop-in replacement for the standard interactive
56 IPython is meant to work as a drop-in replacement for the standard interactive
57 interpreter. As such, any code which is valid python should execute normally
57 interpreter. As such, any code which is valid python should execute normally
58 under IPython (cases where this is not true should be reported as bugs). It
58 under IPython (cases where this is not true should be reported as bugs). It
59 does, however, offer many features which are not available at a standard python
59 does, however, offer many features which are not available at a standard python
60 prompt. What follows is a list of these.
60 prompt. What follows is a list of these.
61
61
62
62
63 Caution for Windows users
63 Caution for Windows users
64 -------------------------
64 -------------------------
65
65
66 Windows, unfortunately, uses the '\\' character as a path separator. This is a
66 Windows, unfortunately, uses the '\\' character as a path separator. This is a
67 terrible choice, because '\\' also represents the escape character in most
67 terrible choice, because '\\' also represents the escape character in most
68 modern programming languages, including Python. For this reason, using '/'
68 modern programming languages, including Python. For this reason, using '/'
69 character is recommended if you have problems with ``\``. However, in Windows
69 character is recommended if you have problems with ``\``. However, in Windows
70 commands '/' flags options, so you can not use it for the root directory. This
70 commands '/' flags options, so you can not use it for the root directory. This
71 means that paths beginning at the root must be typed in a contrived manner
71 means that paths beginning at the root must be typed in a contrived manner
72 like: ``%copy \opt/foo/bar.txt \tmp``
72 like: ``%copy \opt/foo/bar.txt \tmp``
73
73
74 .. _magic:
74 .. _magic:
75
75
76 Magic command system
76 Magic command system
77 --------------------
77 --------------------
78
78
79 IPython will treat any line whose first character is a % as a special
79 IPython will treat any line whose first character is a % as a special
80 call to a 'magic' function. These allow you to control the behavior of
80 call to a 'magic' function. These allow you to control the behavior of
81 IPython itself, plus a lot of system-type features. They are all
81 IPython itself, plus a lot of system-type features. They are all
82 prefixed with a % character, but parameters are given without
82 prefixed with a % character, but parameters are given without
83 parentheses or quotes.
83 parentheses or quotes.
84
84
85 Lines that begin with ``%%`` signal a *cell magic*: they take as arguments not
85 Lines that begin with ``%%`` signal a *cell magic*: they take as arguments not
86 only the rest of the current line, but all lines below them as well, in the
86 only the rest of the current line, but all lines below them as well, in the
87 current execution block. Cell magics can in fact make arbitrary modifications
87 current execution block. Cell magics can in fact make arbitrary modifications
88 to the input they receive, which need not even be valid Python code at all.
88 to the input they receive, which need not even be valid Python code at all.
89 They receive the whole block as a single string.
89 They receive the whole block as a single string.
90
90
91 As a line magic example, the ``%cd`` magic works just like the OS command of
91 As a line magic example, the ``%cd`` magic works just like the OS command of
92 the same name::
92 the same name::
93
93
94 In [8]: %cd
94 In [8]: %cd
95 /home/fperez
95 /home/fperez
96
96
97 The following uses the builtin ``timeit`` in cell mode::
97 The following uses the builtin ``timeit`` in cell mode::
98
98
99 In [10]: %%timeit x = range(10000)
99 In [10]: %%timeit x = range(10000)
100 ...: min(x)
100 ...: min(x)
101 ...: max(x)
101 ...: max(x)
102 ...:
102 ...:
103 1000 loops, best of 3: 438 us per loop
103 1000 loops, best of 3: 438 us per loop
104
104
105 In this case, ``x = range(10000)`` is called as the line argument, and the
105 In this case, ``x = range(10000)`` is called as the line argument, and the
106 block with ``min(x)`` and ``max(x)`` is called as the cell body. The
106 block with ``min(x)`` and ``max(x)`` is called as the cell body. The
107 ``timeit`` magic receives both.
107 ``timeit`` magic receives both.
108
108
109 If you have 'automagic' enabled (as it by default), you don't need to type in
109 If you have 'automagic' enabled (as it by default), you don't need to type in
110 the single ``%`` explicitly for line magics; IPython will scan its internal
110 the single ``%`` explicitly for line magics; IPython will scan its internal
111 list of magic functions and call one if it exists. With automagic on you can
111 list of magic functions and call one if it exists. With automagic on you can
112 then just type ``cd mydir`` to go to directory 'mydir'::
112 then just type ``cd mydir`` to go to directory 'mydir'::
113
113
114 In [9]: cd mydir
114 In [9]: cd mydir
115 /home/fperez/mydir
115 /home/fperez/mydir
116
116
117 Note that cell magics *always* require an explicit ``%%`` prefix, automagic
117 Note that cell magics *always* require an explicit ``%%`` prefix, automagic
118 calling only works for line magics.
118 calling only works for line magics.
119
119
120 The automagic system has the lowest possible precedence in name searches, so
120 The automagic system has the lowest possible precedence in name searches, so
121 you can freely use variables with the same names as magic commands. If a magic
121 you can freely use variables with the same names as magic commands. If a magic
122 command is 'shadowed' by a variable, you will need the explicit ``%`` prefix to
122 command is 'shadowed' by a variable, you will need the explicit ``%`` prefix to
123 use it:
123 use it:
124
124
125 .. sourcecode:: ipython
125 .. sourcecode:: ipython
126
126
127 In [1]: cd ipython # %cd is called by automagic
127 In [1]: cd ipython # %cd is called by automagic
128 /home/fperez/ipython
128 /home/fperez/ipython
129
129
130 In [2]: cd=1 # now cd is just a variable
130 In [2]: cd=1 # now cd is just a variable
131
131
132 In [3]: cd .. # and doesn't work as a function anymore
132 In [3]: cd .. # and doesn't work as a function anymore
133 File "<ipython-input-3-9fedb3aff56c>", line 1
133 File "<ipython-input-3-9fedb3aff56c>", line 1
134 cd ..
134 cd ..
135 ^
135 ^
136 SyntaxError: invalid syntax
136 SyntaxError: invalid syntax
137
137
138
138
139 In [4]: %cd .. # but %cd always works
139 In [4]: %cd .. # but %cd always works
140 /home/fperez
140 /home/fperez
141
141
142 In [5]: del cd # if you remove the cd variable, automagic works again
142 In [5]: del cd # if you remove the cd variable, automagic works again
143
143
144 In [6]: cd ipython
144 In [6]: cd ipython
145
145
146 /home/fperez/ipython
146 /home/fperez/ipython
147
147
148 .. _defining_magics:
148 .. _defining_magics:
149
149
150 Defining your own magics
150 Defining your own magics
151 ++++++++++++++++++++++++
151 ++++++++++++++++++++++++
152
152
153 There are two main ways to define your own magic functions: from standalone
153 There are two main ways to define your own magic functions: from standalone
154 functions and by inheriting from a base class provided by IPython:
154 functions and by inheriting from a base class provided by IPython:
155 :class:`IPython.core.magic.Magics`. Below we show code you can place in a file
155 :class:`IPython.core.magic.Magics`. Below we show code you can place in a file
156 that you load from your configuration, such as any file in the ``startup``
156 that you load from your configuration, such as any file in the ``startup``
157 subdirectory of your default IPython profile.
157 subdirectory of your default IPython profile.
158
158
159 First, let us see the simplest case. The following shows how to create a line
159 First, let us see the simplest case. The following shows how to create a line
160 magic, a cell one and one that works in both modes, using just plain functions:
160 magic, a cell one and one that works in both modes, using just plain functions:
161
161
162 .. sourcecode:: python
162 .. sourcecode:: python
163
163
164 from IPython.core.magic import (register_line_magic, register_cell_magic,
164 from IPython.core.magic import (register_line_magic, register_cell_magic,
165 register_line_cell_magic)
165 register_line_cell_magic)
166
166
167 @register_line_magic
167 @register_line_magic
168 def lmagic(line):
168 def lmagic(line):
169 "my line magic"
169 "my line magic"
170 return line
170 return line
171
171
172 @register_cell_magic
172 @register_cell_magic
173 def cmagic(line, cell):
173 def cmagic(line, cell):
174 "my cell magic"
174 "my cell magic"
175 return line, cell
175 return line, cell
176
176
177 @register_line_cell_magic
177 @register_line_cell_magic
178 def lcmagic(line, cell=None):
178 def lcmagic(line, cell=None):
179 "Magic that works both as %lcmagic and as %%lcmagic"
179 "Magic that works both as %lcmagic and as %%lcmagic"
180 if cell is None:
180 if cell is None:
181 print("Called as line magic")
181 print("Called as line magic")
182 return line
182 return line
183 else:
183 else:
184 print("Called as cell magic")
184 print("Called as cell magic")
185 return line, cell
185 return line, cell
186
186
187 # We delete these to avoid name conflicts for automagic to work
187 # We delete these to avoid name conflicts for automagic to work
188 del lmagic, lcmagic
188 del lmagic, lcmagic
189
189
190
190
191 You can also create magics of all three kinds by inheriting from the
191 You can also create magics of all three kinds by inheriting from the
192 :class:`IPython.core.magic.Magics` class. This lets you create magics that can
192 :class:`IPython.core.magic.Magics` class. This lets you create magics that can
193 potentially hold state in between calls, and that have full access to the main
193 potentially hold state in between calls, and that have full access to the main
194 IPython object:
194 IPython object:
195
195
196 .. sourcecode:: python
196 .. sourcecode:: python
197
197
198 # This code can be put in any Python module, it does not require IPython
198 # This code can be put in any Python module, it does not require IPython
199 # itself to be running already. It only creates the magics subclass but
199 # itself to be running already. It only creates the magics subclass but
200 # doesn't instantiate it yet.
200 # doesn't instantiate it yet.
201 from __future__ import print_function
201 from __future__ import print_function
202 from IPython.core.magic import (Magics, magics_class, line_magic,
202 from IPython.core.magic import (Magics, magics_class, line_magic,
203 cell_magic, line_cell_magic)
203 cell_magic, line_cell_magic)
204
204
205 # The class MUST call this class decorator at creation time
205 # The class MUST call this class decorator at creation time
206 @magics_class
206 @magics_class
207 class MyMagics(Magics):
207 class MyMagics(Magics):
208
208
209 @line_magic
209 @line_magic
210 def lmagic(self, line):
210 def lmagic(self, line):
211 "my line magic"
211 "my line magic"
212 print("Full access to the main IPython object:", self.shell)
212 print("Full access to the main IPython object:", self.shell)
213 print("Variables in the user namespace:", list(self.shell.user_ns.keys()))
213 print("Variables in the user namespace:", list(self.shell.user_ns.keys()))
214 return line
214 return line
215
215
216 @cell_magic
216 @cell_magic
217 def cmagic(self, line, cell):
217 def cmagic(self, line, cell):
218 "my cell magic"
218 "my cell magic"
219 return line, cell
219 return line, cell
220
220
221 @line_cell_magic
221 @line_cell_magic
222 def lcmagic(self, line, cell=None):
222 def lcmagic(self, line, cell=None):
223 "Magic that works both as %lcmagic and as %%lcmagic"
223 "Magic that works both as %lcmagic and as %%lcmagic"
224 if cell is None:
224 if cell is None:
225 print("Called as line magic")
225 print("Called as line magic")
226 return line
226 return line
227 else:
227 else:
228 print("Called as cell magic")
228 print("Called as cell magic")
229 return line, cell
229 return line, cell
230
230
231
231
232 # In order to actually use these magics, you must register them with a
232 # In order to actually use these magics, you must register them with a
233 # running IPython. This code must be placed in a file that is loaded once
233 # running IPython. This code must be placed in a file that is loaded once
234 # IPython is up and running:
234 # IPython is up and running:
235 ip = get_ipython()
235 ip = get_ipython()
236 # You can register the class itself without instantiating it. IPython will
236 # You can register the class itself without instantiating it. IPython will
237 # call the default constructor on it.
237 # call the default constructor on it.
238 ip.register_magics(MyMagics)
238 ip.register_magics(MyMagics)
239
239
240 If you want to create a class with a different constructor that holds
240 If you want to create a class with a different constructor that holds
241 additional state, then you should always call the parent constructor and
241 additional state, then you should always call the parent constructor and
242 instantiate the class yourself before registration:
242 instantiate the class yourself before registration:
243
243
244 .. sourcecode:: python
244 .. sourcecode:: python
245
245
246 @magics_class
246 @magics_class
247 class StatefulMagics(Magics):
247 class StatefulMagics(Magics):
248 "Magics that hold additional state"
248 "Magics that hold additional state"
249
249
250 def __init__(self, shell, data):
250 def __init__(self, shell, data):
251 # You must call the parent constructor
251 # You must call the parent constructor
252 super(StatefulMagics, self).__init__(shell)
252 super(StatefulMagics, self).__init__(shell)
253 self.data = data
253 self.data = data
254
254
255 # etc...
255 # etc...
256
256
257 # This class must then be registered with a manually created instance,
257 # This class must then be registered with a manually created instance,
258 # since its constructor has different arguments from the default:
258 # since its constructor has different arguments from the default:
259 ip = get_ipython()
259 ip = get_ipython()
260 magics = StatefulMagics(ip, some_data)
260 magics = StatefulMagics(ip, some_data)
261 ip.register_magics(magics)
261 ip.register_magics(magics)
262
262
263
263
264 In earlier versions, IPython had an API for the creation of line magics (cell
264 In earlier versions, IPython had an API for the creation of line magics (cell
265 magics did not exist at the time) that required you to create functions with a
265 magics did not exist at the time) that required you to create functions with a
266 method-looking signature and to manually pass both the function and the name.
266 method-looking signature and to manually pass both the function and the name.
267 While this API is no longer recommended, it remains indefinitely supported for
267 While this API is no longer recommended, it remains indefinitely supported for
268 backwards compatibility purposes. With the old API, you'd create a magic as
268 backwards compatibility purposes. With the old API, you'd create a magic as
269 follows:
269 follows:
270
270
271 .. sourcecode:: python
271 .. sourcecode:: python
272
272
273 def func(self, line):
273 def func(self, line):
274 print("Line magic called with line:", line)
274 print("Line magic called with line:", line)
275 print("IPython object:", self.shell)
275 print("IPython object:", self.shell)
276
276
277 ip = get_ipython()
277 ip = get_ipython()
278 # Declare this function as the magic %mycommand
278 # Declare this function as the magic %mycommand
279 ip.define_magic('mycommand', func)
279 ip.define_magic('mycommand', func)
280
280
281 Type ``%magic`` for more information, including a list of all available magic
281 Type ``%magic`` for more information, including a list of all available magic
282 functions at any time and their docstrings. You can also type
282 functions at any time and their docstrings. You can also type
283 ``%magic_function_name?`` (see :ref:`below <dynamic_object_info>` for
283 ``%magic_function_name?`` (see :ref:`below <dynamic_object_info>` for
284 information on the '?' system) to get information about any particular magic
284 information on the '?' system) to get information about any particular magic
285 function you are interested in.
285 function you are interested in.
286
286
287 The API documentation for the :mod:`IPython.core.magic` module contains the full
287 The API documentation for the :mod:`IPython.core.magic` module contains the full
288 docstrings of all currently available magic commands.
288 docstrings of all currently available magic commands.
289
289
290
290
291 Access to the standard Python help
291 Access to the standard Python help
292 ----------------------------------
292 ----------------------------------
293
293
294 Simply type ``help()`` to access Python's standard help system. You can
294 Simply type ``help()`` to access Python's standard help system. You can
295 also type ``help(object)`` for information about a given object, or
295 also type ``help(object)`` for information about a given object, or
296 ``help('keyword')`` for information on a keyword. You may need to configure your
296 ``help('keyword')`` for information on a keyword. You may need to configure your
297 PYTHONDOCS environment variable for this feature to work correctly.
297 PYTHONDOCS environment variable for this feature to work correctly.
298
298
299 .. _dynamic_object_info:
299 .. _dynamic_object_info:
300
300
301 Dynamic object information
301 Dynamic object information
302 --------------------------
302 --------------------------
303
303
304 Typing ``?word`` or ``word?`` prints detailed information about an object. If
304 Typing ``?word`` or ``word?`` prints detailed information about an object. If
305 certain strings in the object are too long (e.g. function signatures) they get
305 certain strings in the object are too long (e.g. function signatures) they get
306 snipped in the center for brevity. This system gives access variable types and
306 snipped in the center for brevity. This system gives access variable types and
307 values, docstrings, function prototypes and other useful information.
307 values, docstrings, function prototypes and other useful information.
308
308
309 If the information will not fit in the terminal, it is displayed in a pager
309 If the information will not fit in the terminal, it is displayed in a pager
310 (``less`` if available, otherwise a basic internal pager).
310 (``less`` if available, otherwise a basic internal pager).
311
311
312 Typing ``??word`` or ``word??`` gives access to the full information, including
312 Typing ``??word`` or ``word??`` gives access to the full information, including
313 the source code where possible. Long strings are not snipped.
313 the source code where possible. Long strings are not snipped.
314
314
315 The following magic functions are particularly useful for gathering
315 The following magic functions are particularly useful for gathering
316 information about your working environment. You can get more details by
316 information about your working environment. You can get more details by
317 typing ``%magic`` or querying them individually (``%function_name?``);
317 typing ``%magic`` or querying them individually (``%function_name?``);
318 this is just a summary:
318 this is just a summary:
319
319
320 * **%pdoc <object>**: Print (or run through a pager if too long) the
320 * **%pdoc <object>**: Print (or run through a pager if too long) the
321 docstring for an object. If the given object is a class, it will
321 docstring for an object. If the given object is a class, it will
322 print both the class and the constructor docstrings.
322 print both the class and the constructor docstrings.
323 * **%pdef <object>**: Print the call signature for any callable
323 * **%pdef <object>**: Print the call signature for any callable
324 object. If the object is a class, print the constructor information.
324 object. If the object is a class, print the constructor information.
325 * **%psource <object>**: Print (or run through a pager if too long)
325 * **%psource <object>**: Print (or run through a pager if too long)
326 the source code for an object.
326 the source code for an object.
327 * **%pfile <object>**: Show the entire source file where an object was
327 * **%pfile <object>**: Show the entire source file where an object was
328 defined via a pager, opening it at the line where the object
328 defined via a pager, opening it at the line where the object
329 definition begins.
329 definition begins.
330 * **%who/%whos**: These functions give information about identifiers
330 * **%who/%whos**: These functions give information about identifiers
331 you have defined interactively (not things you loaded or defined
331 you have defined interactively (not things you loaded or defined
332 in your configuration files). %who just prints a list of
332 in your configuration files). %who just prints a list of
333 identifiers and %whos prints a table with some basic details about
333 identifiers and %whos prints a table with some basic details about
334 each identifier.
334 each identifier.
335
335
336 Note that the dynamic object information functions (?/??, ``%pdoc``,
336 Note that the dynamic object information functions (?/??, ``%pdoc``,
337 ``%pfile``, ``%pdef``, ``%psource``) work on object attributes, as well as
337 ``%pfile``, ``%pdef``, ``%psource``) work on object attributes, as well as
338 directly on variables. For example, after doing ``import os``, you can use
338 directly on variables. For example, after doing ``import os``, you can use
339 ``os.path.abspath??``.
339 ``os.path.abspath??``.
340
340
341 .. _readline:
341 .. _readline:
342
342
343 Readline-based features
343 Readline-based features
344 -----------------------
344 -----------------------
345
345
346 These features require the GNU readline library, so they won't work if your
346 These features require the GNU readline library, so they won't work if your
347 Python installation lacks readline support. We will first describe the default
347 Python installation lacks readline support. We will first describe the default
348 behavior IPython uses, and then how to change it to suit your preferences.
348 behavior IPython uses, and then how to change it to suit your preferences.
349
349
350
350
351 Command line completion
351 Command line completion
352 +++++++++++++++++++++++
352 +++++++++++++++++++++++
353
353
354 At any time, hitting TAB will complete any available python commands or
354 At any time, hitting TAB will complete any available python commands or
355 variable names, and show you a list of the possible completions if
355 variable names, and show you a list of the possible completions if
356 there's no unambiguous one. It will also complete filenames in the
356 there's no unambiguous one. It will also complete filenames in the
357 current directory if no python names match what you've typed so far.
357 current directory if no python names match what you've typed so far.
358
358
359
359
360 Search command history
360 Search command history
361 ++++++++++++++++++++++
361 ++++++++++++++++++++++
362
362
363 IPython provides two ways for searching through previous input and thus
363 IPython provides two ways for searching through previous input and thus
364 reduce the need for repetitive typing:
364 reduce the need for repetitive typing:
365
365
366 1. Start typing, and then use the up and down arrow keys (or :kbd:`Ctrl-p`
366 1. Start typing, and then use the up and down arrow keys (or :kbd:`Ctrl-p`
367 and :kbd:`Ctrl-n`) to search through only the history items that match
367 and :kbd:`Ctrl-n`) to search through only the history items that match
368 what you've typed so far.
368 what you've typed so far.
369 2. Hit :kbd:`Ctrl-r`: to open a search prompt. Begin typing and the system
369 2. Hit :kbd:`Ctrl-r`: to open a search prompt. Begin typing and the system
370 searches your history for lines that contain what you've typed so
370 searches your history for lines that contain what you've typed so
371 far, completing as much as it can.
371 far, completing as much as it can.
372
372
373 IPython will save your input history when it leaves and reload it next
373 IPython will save your input history when it leaves and reload it next
374 time you restart it. By default, the history file is named
374 time you restart it. By default, the history file is named
375 :file:`.ipython/profile_{name}/history.sqlite`.
375 :file:`.ipython/profile_{name}/history.sqlite`.
376
376
377 Autoindent
377 Autoindent
378 ++++++++++
378 ++++++++++
379
379
380 IPython can recognize lines ending in ':' and indent the next line,
380 IPython can recognize lines ending in ':' and indent the next line,
381 while also un-indenting automatically after 'raise' or 'return'.
381 while also un-indenting automatically after 'raise' or 'return'.
382
382
383 This feature uses the readline library, so it will honor your
383 This feature uses the readline library, so it will honor your
384 :file:`~/.inputrc` configuration (or whatever file your :envvar:`INPUTRC` environment variable points
384 :file:`~/.inputrc` configuration (or whatever file your :envvar:`INPUTRC` environment variable points
385 to). Adding the following lines to your :file:`.inputrc` file can make
385 to). Adding the following lines to your :file:`.inputrc` file can make
386 indenting/unindenting more convenient (M-i indents, M-u unindents)::
386 indenting/unindenting more convenient (M-i indents, M-u unindents)::
387
387
388 # if you don't already have a ~/.inputrc file, you need this include:
388 # if you don't already have a ~/.inputrc file, you need this include:
389 $include /etc/inputrc
389 $include /etc/inputrc
390
390
391 $if Python
391 $if Python
392 "\M-i": " "
392 "\M-i": " "
393 "\M-u": "\d\d\d\d"
393 "\M-u": "\d\d\d\d"
394 $endif
394 $endif
395
395
396 Note that there are 4 spaces between the quote marks after "M-i" above.
396 Note that there are 4 spaces between the quote marks after "M-i" above.
397
397
398 .. warning::
398 .. warning::
399
399
400 Setting the above indents will cause problems with unicode text entry in
400 Setting the above indents will cause problems with unicode text entry in
401 the terminal.
401 the terminal.
402
402
403 .. warning::
403 .. warning::
404
404
405 Autoindent is ON by default, but it can cause problems with the pasting of
405 Autoindent is ON by default, but it can cause problems with the pasting of
406 multi-line indented code (the pasted code gets re-indented on each line). A
406 multi-line indented code (the pasted code gets re-indented on each line). A
407 magic function %autoindent allows you to toggle it on/off at runtime. You
407 magic function %autoindent allows you to toggle it on/off at runtime. You
408 can also disable it permanently on in your :file:`ipython_config.py` file
408 can also disable it permanently on in your :file:`ipython_config.py` file
409 (set TerminalInteractiveShell.autoindent=False).
409 (set TerminalInteractiveShell.autoindent=False).
410
410
411 If you want to paste multiple lines in the terminal, it is recommended that
411 If you want to paste multiple lines in the terminal, it is recommended that
412 you use ``%paste``.
412 you use ``%paste``.
413
413
414
414
415 Customizing readline behavior
415 Customizing readline behavior
416 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
416 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
417
417
418 All these features are based on the GNU readline library, which has an
418 All these features are based on the GNU readline library, which has an
419 extremely customizable interface. Normally, readline is configured via a
419 extremely customizable interface. Normally, readline is configured via a
420 :file:`.inputrc` file. IPython respects this, and you can also customise readline
420 :file:`.inputrc` file. IPython respects this, and you can also customise readline
421 by setting the following :doc:`configuration </config/intro>` options:
421 by setting the following :doc:`configuration </config/intro>` options:
422
422
423 * ``InteractiveShell.readline_parse_and_bind``: this holds a list of strings to be executed
423 * ``InteractiveShell.readline_parse_and_bind``: this holds a list of strings to be executed
424 via a readline.parse_and_bind() command. The syntax for valid commands
424 via a readline.parse_and_bind() command. The syntax for valid commands
425 of this kind can be found by reading the documentation for the GNU
425 of this kind can be found by reading the documentation for the GNU
426 readline library, as these commands are of the kind which readline
426 readline library, as these commands are of the kind which readline
427 accepts in its configuration file.
427 accepts in its configuration file.
428 * ``InteractiveShell.readline_remove_delims``: a string of characters to be removed
428 * ``InteractiveShell.readline_remove_delims``: a string of characters to be removed
429 from the default word-delimiters list used by readline, so that
429 from the default word-delimiters list used by readline, so that
430 completions may be performed on strings which contain them. Do not
430 completions may be performed on strings which contain them. Do not
431 change the default value unless you know what you're doing.
431 change the default value unless you know what you're doing.
432
432
433 You will find the default values in your configuration file.
433 You will find the default values in your configuration file.
434
434
435
435
436 Session logging and restoring
436 Session logging and restoring
437 -----------------------------
437 -----------------------------
438
438
439 You can log all input from a session either by starting IPython with the
439 You can log all input from a session either by starting IPython with the
440 command line switch ``--logfile=foo.py`` (see :ref:`here <command_line_options>`)
440 command line switch ``--logfile=foo.py`` (see :ref:`here <command_line_options>`)
441 or by activating the logging at any moment with the magic function %logstart.
441 or by activating the logging at any moment with the magic function %logstart.
442
442
443 Log files can later be reloaded by running them as scripts and IPython
443 Log files can later be reloaded by running them as scripts and IPython
444 will attempt to 'replay' the log by executing all the lines in it, thus
444 will attempt to 'replay' the log by executing all the lines in it, thus
445 restoring the state of a previous session. This feature is not quite
445 restoring the state of a previous session. This feature is not quite
446 perfect, but can still be useful in many cases.
446 perfect, but can still be useful in many cases.
447
447
448 The log files can also be used as a way to have a permanent record of
448 The log files can also be used as a way to have a permanent record of
449 any code you wrote while experimenting. Log files are regular text files
449 any code you wrote while experimenting. Log files are regular text files
450 which you can later open in your favorite text editor to extract code or
450 which you can later open in your favorite text editor to extract code or
451 to 'clean them up' before using them to replay a session.
451 to 'clean them up' before using them to replay a session.
452
452
453 The `%logstart` function for activating logging in mid-session is used as
453 The `%logstart` function for activating logging in mid-session is used as
454 follows::
454 follows::
455
455
456 %logstart [log_name [log_mode]]
456 %logstart [log_name [log_mode]]
457
457
458 If no name is given, it defaults to a file named 'ipython_log.py' in your
458 If no name is given, it defaults to a file named 'ipython_log.py' in your
459 current working directory, in 'rotate' mode (see below).
459 current working directory, in 'rotate' mode (see below).
460
460
461 '%logstart name' saves to file 'name' in 'backup' mode. It saves your
461 '%logstart name' saves to file 'name' in 'backup' mode. It saves your
462 history up to that point and then continues logging.
462 history up to that point and then continues logging.
463
463
464 %logstart takes a second optional parameter: logging mode. This can be
464 %logstart takes a second optional parameter: logging mode. This can be
465 one of (note that the modes are given unquoted):
465 one of (note that the modes are given unquoted):
466
466
467 * [over:] overwrite existing log_name.
467 * [over:] overwrite existing log_name.
468 * [backup:] rename (if exists) to log_name~ and start log_name.
468 * [backup:] rename (if exists) to log_name~ and start log_name.
469 * [append:] well, that says it.
469 * [append:] well, that says it.
470 * [rotate:] create rotating logs log_name.1~, log_name.2~, etc.
470 * [rotate:] create rotating logs log_name.1~, log_name.2~, etc.
471
471
472 The %logoff and %logon functions allow you to temporarily stop and
472 The %logoff and %logon functions allow you to temporarily stop and
473 resume logging to a file which had previously been started with
473 resume logging to a file which had previously been started with
474 %logstart. They will fail (with an explanation) if you try to use them
474 %logstart. They will fail (with an explanation) if you try to use them
475 before logging has been started.
475 before logging has been started.
476
476
477 .. _system_shell_access:
477 .. _system_shell_access:
478
478
479 System shell access
479 System shell access
480 -------------------
480 -------------------
481
481
482 Any input line beginning with a ! character is passed verbatim (minus
482 Any input line beginning with a ! character is passed verbatim (minus
483 the !, of course) to the underlying operating system. For example,
483 the !, of course) to the underlying operating system. For example,
484 typing ``!ls`` will run 'ls' in the current directory.
484 typing ``!ls`` will run 'ls' in the current directory.
485
485
486 Manual capture of command output
486 Manual capture of command output
487 --------------------------------
487 --------------------------------
488
488
489 You can assign the result of a system command to a Python variable with the
489 You can assign the result of a system command to a Python variable with the
490 syntax ``myfiles = !ls``. This gets machine readable output from stdout
490 syntax ``myfiles = !ls``. This gets machine readable output from stdout
491 (e.g. without colours), and splits on newlines. To explicitly get this sort of
491 (e.g. without colours), and splits on newlines. To explicitly get this sort of
492 output without assigning to a variable, use two exclamation marks (``!!ls``) or
492 output without assigning to a variable, use two exclamation marks (``!!ls``) or
493 the ``%sx`` magic command.
493 the ``%sx`` magic command.
494
494
495 The captured list has some convenience features. ``myfiles.n`` or ``myfiles.s``
495 The captured list has some convenience features. ``myfiles.n`` or ``myfiles.s``
496 returns a string delimited by newlines or spaces, respectively. ``myfiles.p``
496 returns a string delimited by newlines or spaces, respectively. ``myfiles.p``
497 produces `path objects <http://pypi.python.org/pypi/path.py>`_ from the list items.
497 produces `path objects <http://pypi.python.org/pypi/path.py>`_ from the list items.
498 See :ref:`string_lists` for details.
498 See :ref:`string_lists` for details.
499
499
500 IPython also allows you to expand the value of python variables when
500 IPython also allows you to expand the value of python variables when
501 making system calls. Wrap variables or expressions in {braces}::
501 making system calls. Wrap variables or expressions in {braces}::
502
502
503 In [1]: pyvar = 'Hello world'
503 In [1]: pyvar = 'Hello world'
504 In [2]: !echo "A python variable: {pyvar}"
504 In [2]: !echo "A python variable: {pyvar}"
505 A python variable: Hello world
505 A python variable: Hello world
506 In [3]: import math
506 In [3]: import math
507 In [4]: x = 8
507 In [4]: x = 8
508 In [5]: !echo {math.factorial(x)}
508 In [5]: !echo {math.factorial(x)}
509 40320
509 40320
510
510
511 For simple cases, you can alternatively prepend $ to a variable name::
511 For simple cases, you can alternatively prepend $ to a variable name::
512
512
513 In [6]: !echo $sys.argv
513 In [6]: !echo $sys.argv
514 [/home/fperez/usr/bin/ipython]
514 [/home/fperez/usr/bin/ipython]
515 In [7]: !echo "A system variable: $$HOME" # Use $$ for literal $
515 In [7]: !echo "A system variable: $$HOME" # Use $$ for literal $
516 A system variable: /home/fperez
516 A system variable: /home/fperez
517
517
518 System command aliases
518 System command aliases
519 ----------------------
519 ----------------------
520
520
521 The %alias magic function allows you to define magic functions which are in fact
521 The %alias magic function allows you to define magic functions which are in fact
522 system shell commands. These aliases can have parameters.
522 system shell commands. These aliases can have parameters.
523
523
524 ``%alias alias_name cmd`` defines 'alias_name' as an alias for 'cmd'
524 ``%alias alias_name cmd`` defines 'alias_name' as an alias for 'cmd'
525
525
526 Then, typing ``alias_name params`` will execute the system command 'cmd
526 Then, typing ``alias_name params`` will execute the system command 'cmd
527 params' (from your underlying operating system).
527 params' (from your underlying operating system).
528
528
529 You can also define aliases with parameters using %s specifiers (one per
529 You can also define aliases with parameters using %s specifiers (one per
530 parameter). The following example defines the parts function as an
530 parameter). The following example defines the parts function as an
531 alias to the command 'echo first %s second %s' where each %s will be
531 alias to the command 'echo first %s second %s' where each %s will be
532 replaced by a positional parameter to the call to %parts::
532 replaced by a positional parameter to the call to %parts::
533
533
534 In [1]: %alias parts echo first %s second %s
534 In [1]: %alias parts echo first %s second %s
535 In [2]: parts A B
535 In [2]: parts A B
536 first A second B
536 first A second B
537 In [3]: parts A
537 In [3]: parts A
538 ERROR: Alias <parts> requires 2 arguments, 1 given.
538 ERROR: Alias <parts> requires 2 arguments, 1 given.
539
539
540 If called with no parameters, %alias prints the table of currently
540 If called with no parameters, %alias prints the table of currently
541 defined aliases.
541 defined aliases.
542
542
543 The %rehashx magic allows you to load your entire $PATH as
543 The %rehashx magic allows you to load your entire $PATH as
544 ipython aliases. See its docstring for further details.
544 ipython aliases. See its docstring for further details.
545
545
546
546
547 .. _dreload:
547 .. _dreload:
548
548
549 Recursive reload
549 Recursive reload
550 ----------------
550 ----------------
551
551
552 The :mod:`IPython.lib.deepreload` module allows you to recursively reload a
552 The :mod:`IPython.lib.deepreload` module allows you to recursively reload a
553 module: changes made to any of its dependencies will be reloaded without
553 module: changes made to any of its dependencies will be reloaded without
554 having to exit. To start using it, do::
554 having to exit. To start using it, do::
555
555
556 from IPython.lib.deepreload import reload as dreload
556 from IPython.lib.deepreload import reload as dreload
557
557
558
558
559 Verbose and colored exception traceback printouts
559 Verbose and colored exception traceback printouts
560 -------------------------------------------------
560 -------------------------------------------------
561
561
562 IPython provides the option to see very detailed exception tracebacks,
562 IPython provides the option to see very detailed exception tracebacks,
563 which can be especially useful when debugging large programs. You can
563 which can be especially useful when debugging large programs. You can
564 run any Python file with the %run function to benefit from these
564 run any Python file with the %run function to benefit from these
565 detailed tracebacks. Furthermore, both normal and verbose tracebacks can
565 detailed tracebacks. Furthermore, both normal and verbose tracebacks can
566 be colored (if your terminal supports it) which makes them much easier
566 be colored (if your terminal supports it) which makes them much easier
567 to parse visually.
567 to parse visually.
568
568
569 See the magic xmode and colors functions for details.
569 See the magic xmode and colors functions for details.
570
570
571 These features are basically a terminal version of Ka-Ping Yee's cgitb
571 These features are basically a terminal version of Ka-Ping Yee's cgitb
572 module, now part of the standard Python library.
572 module, now part of the standard Python library.
573
573
574
574
575 .. _input_caching:
575 .. _input_caching:
576
576
577 Input caching system
577 Input caching system
578 --------------------
578 --------------------
579
579
580 IPython offers numbered prompts (In/Out) with input and output caching
580 IPython offers numbered prompts (In/Out) with input and output caching
581 (also referred to as 'input history'). All input is saved and can be
581 (also referred to as 'input history'). All input is saved and can be
582 retrieved as variables (besides the usual arrow key recall), in
582 retrieved as variables (besides the usual arrow key recall), in
583 addition to the %rep magic command that brings a history entry
583 addition to the %rep magic command that brings a history entry
584 up for editing on the next command line.
584 up for editing on the next command line.
585
585
586 The following variables always exist:
586 The following variables always exist:
587
587
588 * _i, _ii, _iii: store previous, next previous and next-next previous inputs.
588 * _i, _ii, _iii: store previous, next previous and next-next previous inputs.
589 * In, _ih : a list of all inputs; _ih[n] is the input from line n. If you
589 * In, _ih : a list of all inputs; _ih[n] is the input from line n. If you
590 overwrite In with a variable of your own, you can remake the assignment to the
590 overwrite In with a variable of your own, you can remake the assignment to the
591 internal list with a simple ``In=_ih``.
591 internal list with a simple ``In=_ih``.
592
592
593 Additionally, global variables named _i<n> are dynamically created (<n>
593 Additionally, global variables named _i<n> are dynamically created (<n>
594 being the prompt counter), so ``_i<n> == _ih[<n>] == In[<n>]``.
594 being the prompt counter), so ``_i<n> == _ih[<n>] == In[<n>]``.
595
595
596 For example, what you typed at prompt 14 is available as ``_i14``, ``_ih[14]``
596 For example, what you typed at prompt 14 is available as ``_i14``, ``_ih[14]``
597 and ``In[14]``.
597 and ``In[14]``.
598
598
599 This allows you to easily cut and paste multi line interactive prompts
599 This allows you to easily cut and paste multi line interactive prompts
600 by printing them out: they print like a clean string, without prompt
600 by printing them out: they print like a clean string, without prompt
601 characters. You can also manipulate them like regular variables (they
601 characters. You can also manipulate them like regular variables (they
602 are strings), modify or exec them.
602 are strings), modify or exec them.
603
603
604 You can also re-execute multiple lines of input easily by using the
604 You can also re-execute multiple lines of input easily by using the
605 magic %rerun or %macro functions. The macro system also allows you to re-execute
605 magic %rerun or %macro functions. The macro system also allows you to re-execute
606 previous lines which include magic function calls (which require special
606 previous lines which include magic function calls (which require special
607 processing). Type %macro? for more details on the macro system.
607 processing). Type %macro? for more details on the macro system.
608
608
609 A history function %hist allows you to see any part of your input
609 A history function %hist allows you to see any part of your input
610 history by printing a range of the _i variables.
610 history by printing a range of the _i variables.
611
611
612 You can also search ('grep') through your history by typing
612 You can also search ('grep') through your history by typing
613 ``%hist -g somestring``. This is handy for searching for URLs, IP addresses,
613 ``%hist -g somestring``. This is handy for searching for URLs, IP addresses,
614 etc. You can bring history entries listed by '%hist -g' up for editing
614 etc. You can bring history entries listed by '%hist -g' up for editing
615 with the %recall command, or run them immediately with %rerun.
615 with the %recall command, or run them immediately with %rerun.
616
616
617 .. _output_caching:
617 .. _output_caching:
618
618
619 Output caching system
619 Output caching system
620 ---------------------
620 ---------------------
621
621
622 For output that is returned from actions, a system similar to the input
622 For output that is returned from actions, a system similar to the input
623 cache exists but using _ instead of _i. Only actions that produce a
623 cache exists but using _ instead of _i. Only actions that produce a
624 result (NOT assignments, for example) are cached. If you are familiar
624 result (NOT assignments, for example) are cached. If you are familiar
625 with Mathematica, IPython's _ variables behave exactly like
625 with Mathematica, IPython's _ variables behave exactly like
626 Mathematica's % variables.
626 Mathematica's % variables.
627
627
628 The following variables always exist:
628 The following variables always exist:
629
629
630 * [_] (a single underscore): stores previous output, like Python's
630 * [_] (a single underscore): stores previous output, like Python's
631 default interpreter.
631 default interpreter.
632 * [__] (two underscores): next previous.
632 * [__] (two underscores): next previous.
633 * [___] (three underscores): next-next previous.
633 * [___] (three underscores): next-next previous.
634
634
635 Additionally, global variables named _<n> are dynamically created (<n>
635 Additionally, global variables named _<n> are dynamically created (<n>
636 being the prompt counter), such that the result of output <n> is always
636 being the prompt counter), such that the result of output <n> is always
637 available as _<n> (don't use the angle brackets, just the number, e.g.
637 available as _<n> (don't use the angle brackets, just the number, e.g.
638 ``_21``).
638 ``_21``).
639
639
640 These variables are also stored in a global dictionary (not a
640 These variables are also stored in a global dictionary (not a
641 list, since it only has entries for lines which returned a result)
641 list, since it only has entries for lines which returned a result)
642 available under the names _oh and Out (similar to _ih and In). So the
642 available under the names _oh and Out (similar to _ih and In). So the
643 output from line 12 can be obtained as ``_12``, ``Out[12]`` or ``_oh[12]``. If you
643 output from line 12 can be obtained as ``_12``, ``Out[12]`` or ``_oh[12]``. If you
644 accidentally overwrite the Out variable you can recover it by typing
644 accidentally overwrite the Out variable you can recover it by typing
645 ``Out=_oh`` at the prompt.
645 ``Out=_oh`` at the prompt.
646
646
647 This system obviously can potentially put heavy memory demands on your
647 This system obviously can potentially put heavy memory demands on your
648 system, since it prevents Python's garbage collector from removing any
648 system, since it prevents Python's garbage collector from removing any
649 previously computed results. You can control how many results are kept
649 previously computed results. You can control how many results are kept
650 in memory with the configuration option ``InteractiveShell.cache_size``.
650 in memory with the configuration option ``InteractiveShell.cache_size``.
651 If you set it to 0, output caching is disabled. You can also use the ``%reset``
651 If you set it to 0, output caching is disabled. You can also use the ``%reset``
652 and ``%xdel`` magics to clear large items from memory.
652 and ``%xdel`` magics to clear large items from memory.
653
653
654 Directory history
654 Directory history
655 -----------------
655 -----------------
656
656
657 Your history of visited directories is kept in the global list _dh, and
657 Your history of visited directories is kept in the global list _dh, and
658 the magic %cd command can be used to go to any entry in that list. The
658 the magic %cd command can be used to go to any entry in that list. The
659 %dhist command allows you to view this history. Do ``cd -<TAB>`` to
659 %dhist command allows you to view this history. Do ``cd -<TAB>`` to
660 conveniently view the directory history.
660 conveniently view the directory history.
661
661
662
662
663 Automatic parentheses and quotes
663 Automatic parentheses and quotes
664 --------------------------------
664 --------------------------------
665
665
666 These features were adapted from Nathan Gray's LazyPython. They are
666 These features were adapted from Nathan Gray's LazyPython. They are
667 meant to allow less typing for common situations.
667 meant to allow less typing for common situations.
668
668
669 Callable objects (i.e. functions, methods, etc) can be invoked like this
669 Callable objects (i.e. functions, methods, etc) can be invoked like this
670 (notice the commas between the arguments)::
670 (notice the commas between the arguments)::
671
671
672 In [1]: callable_ob arg1, arg2, arg3
672 In [1]: callable_ob arg1, arg2, arg3
673 ------> callable_ob(arg1, arg2, arg3)
673 ------> callable_ob(arg1, arg2, arg3)
674
674
675 .. note::
675 .. note::
676 This feature is disabled by default. To enable it, use the ``%autocall``
676 This feature is disabled by default. To enable it, use the ``%autocall``
677 magic command. The commands below with special prefixes will always work,
677 magic command. The commands below with special prefixes will always work,
678 however.
678 however.
679
679
680 You can force automatic parentheses by using '/' as the first character
680 You can force automatic parentheses by using '/' as the first character
681 of a line. For example::
681 of a line. For example::
682
682
683 In [2]: /globals # becomes 'globals()'
683 In [2]: /globals # becomes 'globals()'
684
684
685 Note that the '/' MUST be the first character on the line! This won't work::
685 Note that the '/' MUST be the first character on the line! This won't work::
686
686
687 In [3]: print /globals # syntax error
687 In [3]: print /globals # syntax error
688
688
689 In most cases the automatic algorithm should work, so you should rarely
689 In most cases the automatic algorithm should work, so you should rarely
690 need to explicitly invoke /. One notable exception is if you are trying
690 need to explicitly invoke /. One notable exception is if you are trying
691 to call a function with a list of tuples as arguments (the parenthesis
691 to call a function with a list of tuples as arguments (the parenthesis
692 will confuse IPython)::
692 will confuse IPython)::
693
693
694 In [4]: zip (1,2,3),(4,5,6) # won't work
694 In [4]: zip (1,2,3),(4,5,6) # won't work
695
695
696 but this will work::
696 but this will work::
697
697
698 In [5]: /zip (1,2,3),(4,5,6)
698 In [5]: /zip (1,2,3),(4,5,6)
699 ------> zip ((1,2,3),(4,5,6))
699 ------> zip ((1,2,3),(4,5,6))
700 Out[5]: [(1, 4), (2, 5), (3, 6)]
700 Out[5]: [(1, 4), (2, 5), (3, 6)]
701
701
702 IPython tells you that it has altered your command line by displaying
702 IPython tells you that it has altered your command line by displaying
703 the new command line preceded by ``--->``.
703 the new command line preceded by ``--->``.
704
704
705 You can force automatic quoting of a function's arguments by using ``,``
705 You can force automatic quoting of a function's arguments by using ``,``
706 or ``;`` as the first character of a line. For example::
706 or ``;`` as the first character of a line. For example::
707
707
708 In [1]: ,my_function /home/me # becomes my_function("/home/me")
708 In [1]: ,my_function /home/me # becomes my_function("/home/me")
709
709
710 If you use ';' the whole argument is quoted as a single string, while ',' splits
710 If you use ';' the whole argument is quoted as a single string, while ',' splits
711 on whitespace::
711 on whitespace::
712
712
713 In [2]: ,my_function a b c # becomes my_function("a","b","c")
713 In [2]: ,my_function a b c # becomes my_function("a","b","c")
714
714
715 In [3]: ;my_function a b c # becomes my_function("a b c")
715 In [3]: ;my_function a b c # becomes my_function("a b c")
716
716
717 Note that the ',' or ';' MUST be the first character on the line! This
717 Note that the ',' or ';' MUST be the first character on the line! This
718 won't work::
718 won't work::
719
719
720 In [4]: x = ,my_function /home/me # syntax error
720 In [4]: x = ,my_function /home/me # syntax error
721
721
722 IPython as your default Python environment
722 IPython as your default Python environment
723 ==========================================
723 ==========================================
724
724
725 Python honors the environment variable :envvar:`PYTHONSTARTUP` and will
725 Python honors the environment variable :envvar:`PYTHONSTARTUP` and will
726 execute at startup the file referenced by this variable. If you put the
726 execute at startup the file referenced by this variable. If you put the
727 following code at the end of that file, then IPython will be your working
727 following code at the end of that file, then IPython will be your working
728 environment anytime you start Python::
728 environment anytime you start Python::
729
729
730 import os, IPython
730 import os, IPython
731 os.environ['PYTHONSTARTUP'] = '' # Prevent running this again
731 os.environ['PYTHONSTARTUP'] = '' # Prevent running this again
732 IPython.start_ipython()
732 IPython.start_ipython()
733 raise SystemExit
733 raise SystemExit
734
734
735 The ``raise SystemExit`` is needed to exit Python when
735 The ``raise SystemExit`` is needed to exit Python when
736 it finishes, otherwise you'll be back at the normal Python ``>>>``
736 it finishes, otherwise you'll be back at the normal Python ``>>>``
737 prompt.
737 prompt.
738
738
739 This is probably useful to developers who manage multiple Python
739 This is probably useful to developers who manage multiple Python
740 versions and don't want to have correspondingly multiple IPython
740 versions and don't want to have correspondingly multiple IPython
741 versions. Note that in this mode, there is no way to pass IPython any
741 versions. Note that in this mode, there is no way to pass IPython any
742 command-line options, as those are trapped first by Python itself.
742 command-line options, as those are trapped first by Python itself.
743
743
744 .. _Embedding:
744 .. _Embedding:
745
745
746 Embedding IPython
746 Embedding IPython
747 =================
747 =================
748
748
749 You can start a regular IPython session with
749 You can start a regular IPython session with
750
750
751 .. sourcecode:: python
751 .. sourcecode:: python
752
752
753 import IPython
753 import IPython
754 IPython.start_ipython(argv=[])
754 IPython.start_ipython(argv=[])
755
755
756 at any point in your program. This will load IPython configuration,
756 at any point in your program. This will load IPython configuration,
757 startup files, and everything, just as if it were a normal IPython session.
757 startup files, and everything, just as if it were a normal IPython session.
758
758
759 It is also possible to embed an IPython shell in a namespace in your Python code.
759 It is also possible to embed an IPython shell in a namespace in your Python code.
760 This allows you to evaluate dynamically the state of your code,
760 This allows you to evaluate dynamically the state of your code,
761 operate with your variables, analyze them, etc. Note however that
761 operate with your variables, analyze them, etc. Note however that
762 any changes you make to values while in the shell do not propagate back
762 any changes you make to values while in the shell do not propagate back
763 to the running code, so it is safe to modify your values because you
763 to the running code, so it is safe to modify your values because you
764 won't break your code in bizarre ways by doing so.
764 won't break your code in bizarre ways by doing so.
765
765
766 .. note::
766 .. note::
767
767
768 At present, embedding IPython cannot be done from inside IPython.
768 At present, embedding IPython cannot be done from inside IPython.
769 Run the code samples below outside IPython.
769 Run the code samples below outside IPython.
770
770
771 This feature allows you to easily have a fully functional python
771 This feature allows you to easily have a fully functional python
772 environment for doing object introspection anywhere in your code with a
772 environment for doing object introspection anywhere in your code with a
773 simple function call. In some cases a simple print statement is enough,
773 simple function call. In some cases a simple print statement is enough,
774 but if you need to do more detailed analysis of a code fragment this
774 but if you need to do more detailed analysis of a code fragment this
775 feature can be very valuable.
775 feature can be very valuable.
776
776
777 It can also be useful in scientific computing situations where it is
777 It can also be useful in scientific computing situations where it is
778 common to need to do some automatic, computationally intensive part and
778 common to need to do some automatic, computationally intensive part and
779 then stop to look at data, plots, etc.
779 then stop to look at data, plots, etc.
780 Opening an IPython instance will give you full access to your data and
780 Opening an IPython instance will give you full access to your data and
781 functions, and you can resume program execution once you are done with
781 functions, and you can resume program execution once you are done with
782 the interactive part (perhaps to stop again later, as many times as
782 the interactive part (perhaps to stop again later, as many times as
783 needed).
783 needed).
784
784
785 The following code snippet is the bare minimum you need to include in
785 The following code snippet is the bare minimum you need to include in
786 your Python programs for this to work (detailed examples follow later)::
786 your Python programs for this to work (detailed examples follow later)::
787
787
788 from IPython import embed
788 from IPython import embed
789
789
790 embed() # this call anywhere in your program will start IPython
790 embed() # this call anywhere in your program will start IPython
791
791
792 You can also embed an IPython *kernel*, for use with qtconsole, etc. via
792 You can also embed an IPython *kernel*, for use with qtconsole, etc. via
793 ``IPython.embed_kernel()``. This should function work the same way, but you can
793 ``IPython.embed_kernel()``. This should function work the same way, but you can
794 connect an external frontend (``ipython qtconsole`` or ``ipython console``),
794 connect an external frontend (``ipython qtconsole`` or ``ipython console``),
795 rather than interacting with it in the terminal.
795 rather than interacting with it in the terminal.
796
796
797 You can run embedded instances even in code which is itself being run at
797 You can run embedded instances even in code which is itself being run at
798 the IPython interactive prompt with '%run <filename>'. Since it's easy
798 the IPython interactive prompt with '%run <filename>'. Since it's easy
799 to get lost as to where you are (in your top-level IPython or in your
799 to get lost as to where you are (in your top-level IPython or in your
800 embedded one), it's a good idea in such cases to set the in/out prompts
800 embedded one), it's a good idea in such cases to set the in/out prompts
801 to something different for the embedded instances. The code examples
801 to something different for the embedded instances. The code examples
802 below illustrate this.
802 below illustrate this.
803
803
804 You can also have multiple IPython instances in your program and open
804 You can also have multiple IPython instances in your program and open
805 them separately, for example with different options for data
805 them separately, for example with different options for data
806 presentation. If you close and open the same instance multiple times,
806 presentation. If you close and open the same instance multiple times,
807 its prompt counters simply continue from each execution to the next.
807 its prompt counters simply continue from each execution to the next.
808
808
809 Please look at the docstrings in the :mod:`~IPython.frontend.terminal.embed`
809 Please look at the docstrings in the :mod:`~IPython.frontend.terminal.embed`
810 module for more details on the use of this system.
810 module for more details on the use of this system.
811
811
812 The following sample file illustrating how to use the embedding
812 The following sample file illustrating how to use the embedding
813 functionality is provided in the examples directory as example-embed.py.
813 functionality is provided in the examples directory as embed_class_long.py.
814 It should be fairly self-explanatory:
814 It should be fairly self-explanatory:
815
815
816 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/core/example-embed.py
816 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/Embedding/embed_class_long.py
817 :language: python
817 :language: python
818
818
819 Once you understand how the system functions, you can use the following
819 Once you understand how the system functions, you can use the following
820 code fragments in your programs which are ready for cut and paste:
820 code fragments in your programs which are ready for cut and paste:
821
821
822 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/core/example-embed-short.py
822 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/Embedding/embed_class_short.py
823 :language: python
823 :language: python
824
824
825 Using the Python debugger (pdb)
825 Using the Python debugger (pdb)
826 ===============================
826 ===============================
827
827
828 Running entire programs via pdb
828 Running entire programs via pdb
829 -------------------------------
829 -------------------------------
830
830
831 pdb, the Python debugger, is a powerful interactive debugger which
831 pdb, the Python debugger, is a powerful interactive debugger which
832 allows you to step through code, set breakpoints, watch variables,
832 allows you to step through code, set breakpoints, watch variables,
833 etc. IPython makes it very easy to start any script under the control
833 etc. IPython makes it very easy to start any script under the control
834 of pdb, regardless of whether you have wrapped it into a 'main()'
834 of pdb, regardless of whether you have wrapped it into a 'main()'
835 function or not. For this, simply type ``%run -d myscript`` at an
835 function or not. For this, simply type ``%run -d myscript`` at an
836 IPython prompt. See the %run command's documentation for more details, including
836 IPython prompt. See the %run command's documentation for more details, including
837 how to control where pdb will stop execution first.
837 how to control where pdb will stop execution first.
838
838
839 For more information on the use of the pdb debugger, see :ref:`debugger-commands`
839 For more information on the use of the pdb debugger, see :ref:`debugger-commands`
840 in the Python documentation.
840 in the Python documentation.
841
841
842
842
843 Post-mortem debugging
843 Post-mortem debugging
844 ---------------------
844 ---------------------
845
845
846 Going into a debugger when an exception occurs can be
846 Going into a debugger when an exception occurs can be
847 extremely useful in order to find the origin of subtle bugs, because pdb
847 extremely useful in order to find the origin of subtle bugs, because pdb
848 opens up at the point in your code which triggered the exception, and
848 opens up at the point in your code which triggered the exception, and
849 while your program is at this point 'dead', all the data is still
849 while your program is at this point 'dead', all the data is still
850 available and you can walk up and down the stack frame and understand
850 available and you can walk up and down the stack frame and understand
851 the origin of the problem.
851 the origin of the problem.
852
852
853 You can use the ``%debug`` magic after an exception has occurred to start
853 You can use the ``%debug`` magic after an exception has occurred to start
854 post-mortem debugging. IPython can also call debugger every time your code
854 post-mortem debugging. IPython can also call debugger every time your code
855 triggers an uncaught exception. This feature can be toggled with the %pdb magic
855 triggers an uncaught exception. This feature can be toggled with the %pdb magic
856 command, or you can start IPython with the ``--pdb`` option.
856 command, or you can start IPython with the ``--pdb`` option.
857
857
858 For a post-mortem debugger in your programs outside IPython,
858 For a post-mortem debugger in your programs outside IPython,
859 put the following lines toward the top of your 'main' routine::
859 put the following lines toward the top of your 'main' routine::
860
860
861 import sys
861 import sys
862 from IPython.core import ultratb
862 from IPython.core import ultratb
863 sys.excepthook = ultratb.FormattedTB(mode='Verbose',
863 sys.excepthook = ultratb.FormattedTB(mode='Verbose',
864 color_scheme='Linux', call_pdb=1)
864 color_scheme='Linux', call_pdb=1)
865
865
866 The mode keyword can be either 'Verbose' or 'Plain', giving either very
866 The mode keyword can be either 'Verbose' or 'Plain', giving either very
867 detailed or normal tracebacks respectively. The color_scheme keyword can
867 detailed or normal tracebacks respectively. The color_scheme keyword can
868 be one of 'NoColor', 'Linux' (default) or 'LightBG'. These are the same
868 be one of 'NoColor', 'Linux' (default) or 'LightBG'. These are the same
869 options which can be set in IPython with ``--colors`` and ``--xmode``.
869 options which can be set in IPython with ``--colors`` and ``--xmode``.
870
870
871 This will give any of your programs detailed, colored tracebacks with
871 This will give any of your programs detailed, colored tracebacks with
872 automatic invocation of pdb.
872 automatic invocation of pdb.
873
873
874 .. _pasting_with_prompts:
874 .. _pasting_with_prompts:
875
875
876 Pasting of code starting with Python or IPython prompts
876 Pasting of code starting with Python or IPython prompts
877 =======================================================
877 =======================================================
878
878
879 IPython is smart enough to filter out input prompts, be they plain Python ones
879 IPython is smart enough to filter out input prompts, be they plain Python ones
880 (``>>>`` and ``...``) or IPython ones (``In [N]:`` and ``...:``). You can
880 (``>>>`` and ``...``) or IPython ones (``In [N]:`` and ``...:``). You can
881 therefore copy and paste from existing interactive sessions without worry.
881 therefore copy and paste from existing interactive sessions without worry.
882
882
883 The following is a 'screenshot' of how things work, copying an example from the
883 The following is a 'screenshot' of how things work, copying an example from the
884 standard Python tutorial::
884 standard Python tutorial::
885
885
886 In [1]: >>> # Fibonacci series:
886 In [1]: >>> # Fibonacci series:
887
887
888 In [2]: ... # the sum of two elements defines the next
888 In [2]: ... # the sum of two elements defines the next
889
889
890 In [3]: ... a, b = 0, 1
890 In [3]: ... a, b = 0, 1
891
891
892 In [4]: >>> while b < 10:
892 In [4]: >>> while b < 10:
893 ...: ... print(b)
893 ...: ... print(b)
894 ...: ... a, b = b, a+b
894 ...: ... a, b = b, a+b
895 ...:
895 ...:
896 1
896 1
897 1
897 1
898 2
898 2
899 3
899 3
900 5
900 5
901 8
901 8
902
902
903 And pasting from IPython sessions works equally well::
903 And pasting from IPython sessions works equally well::
904
904
905 In [1]: In [5]: def f(x):
905 In [1]: In [5]: def f(x):
906 ...: ...: "A simple function"
906 ...: ...: "A simple function"
907 ...: ...: return x**2
907 ...: ...: return x**2
908 ...: ...:
908 ...: ...:
909
909
910 In [2]: f(3)
910 In [2]: f(3)
911 Out[2]: 9
911 Out[2]: 9
912
912
913 .. _gui_support:
913 .. _gui_support:
914
914
915 GUI event loop support
915 GUI event loop support
916 ======================
916 ======================
917
917
918 .. versionadded:: 0.11
918 .. versionadded:: 0.11
919 The ``%gui`` magic and :mod:`IPython.lib.inputhook`.
919 The ``%gui`` magic and :mod:`IPython.lib.inputhook`.
920
920
921 IPython has excellent support for working interactively with Graphical User
921 IPython has excellent support for working interactively with Graphical User
922 Interface (GUI) toolkits, such as wxPython, PyQt4/PySide, PyGTK and Tk. This is
922 Interface (GUI) toolkits, such as wxPython, PyQt4/PySide, PyGTK and Tk. This is
923 implemented using Python's builtin ``PyOSInputHook`` hook. This implementation
923 implemented using Python's builtin ``PyOSInputHook`` hook. This implementation
924 is extremely robust compared to our previous thread-based version. The
924 is extremely robust compared to our previous thread-based version. The
925 advantages of this are:
925 advantages of this are:
926
926
927 * GUIs can be enabled and disabled dynamically at runtime.
927 * GUIs can be enabled and disabled dynamically at runtime.
928 * The active GUI can be switched dynamically at runtime.
928 * The active GUI can be switched dynamically at runtime.
929 * In some cases, multiple GUIs can run simultaneously with no problems.
929 * In some cases, multiple GUIs can run simultaneously with no problems.
930 * There is a developer API in :mod:`IPython.lib.inputhook` for customizing
930 * There is a developer API in :mod:`IPython.lib.inputhook` for customizing
931 all of these things.
931 all of these things.
932
932
933 For users, enabling GUI event loop integration is simple. You simple use the
933 For users, enabling GUI event loop integration is simple. You simple use the
934 ``%gui`` magic as follows::
934 ``%gui`` magic as follows::
935
935
936 %gui [GUINAME]
936 %gui [GUINAME]
937
937
938 With no arguments, ``%gui`` removes all GUI support. Valid ``GUINAME``
938 With no arguments, ``%gui`` removes all GUI support. Valid ``GUINAME``
939 arguments are ``wx``, ``qt``, ``gtk`` and ``tk``.
939 arguments are ``wx``, ``qt``, ``gtk`` and ``tk``.
940
940
941 Thus, to use wxPython interactively and create a running :class:`wx.App`
941 Thus, to use wxPython interactively and create a running :class:`wx.App`
942 object, do::
942 object, do::
943
943
944 %gui wx
944 %gui wx
945
945
946 You can also start IPython with an event loop set up using the :option:`--gui`
946 You can also start IPython with an event loop set up using the :option:`--gui`
947 flag::
947 flag::
948
948
949 $ ipython --gui=qt
949 $ ipython --gui=qt
950
950
951 For information on IPython's matplotlib_ integration (and the ``matplotlib``
951 For information on IPython's matplotlib_ integration (and the ``matplotlib``
952 mode) see :ref:`this section <matplotlib_support>`.
952 mode) see :ref:`this section <matplotlib_support>`.
953
953
954 For developers that want to use IPython's GUI event loop integration in the
954 For developers that want to use IPython's GUI event loop integration in the
955 form of a library, these capabilities are exposed in library form in the
955 form of a library, these capabilities are exposed in library form in the
956 :mod:`IPython.lib.inputhook` and :mod:`IPython.lib.guisupport` modules.
956 :mod:`IPython.lib.inputhook` and :mod:`IPython.lib.guisupport` modules.
957 Interested developers should see the module docstrings for more information,
957 Interested developers should see the module docstrings for more information,
958 but there are a few points that should be mentioned here.
958 but there are a few points that should be mentioned here.
959
959
960 First, the ``PyOSInputHook`` approach only works in command line settings
960 First, the ``PyOSInputHook`` approach only works in command line settings
961 where readline is activated. The integration with various eventloops
961 where readline is activated. The integration with various eventloops
962 is handled somewhat differently (and more simply) when using the standalone
962 is handled somewhat differently (and more simply) when using the standalone
963 kernel, as in the qtconsole and notebook.
963 kernel, as in the qtconsole and notebook.
964
964
965 Second, when using the ``PyOSInputHook`` approach, a GUI application should
965 Second, when using the ``PyOSInputHook`` approach, a GUI application should
966 *not* start its event loop. Instead all of this is handled by the
966 *not* start its event loop. Instead all of this is handled by the
967 ``PyOSInputHook``. This means that applications that are meant to be used both
967 ``PyOSInputHook``. This means that applications that are meant to be used both
968 in IPython and as standalone apps need to have special code to detects how the
968 in IPython and as standalone apps need to have special code to detects how the
969 application is being run. We highly recommend using IPython's support for this.
969 application is being run. We highly recommend using IPython's support for this.
970 Since the details vary slightly between toolkits, we point you to the various
970 Since the details vary slightly between toolkits, we point you to the various
971 examples in our source directory :file:`examples/lib` that demonstrate
971 examples in our source directory :file:`examples/lib` that demonstrate
972 these capabilities.
972 these capabilities.
973
973
974 Third, unlike previous versions of IPython, we no longer "hijack" (replace
974 Third, unlike previous versions of IPython, we no longer "hijack" (replace
975 them with no-ops) the event loops. This is done to allow applications that
975 them with no-ops) the event loops. This is done to allow applications that
976 actually need to run the real event loops to do so. This is often needed to
976 actually need to run the real event loops to do so. This is often needed to
977 process pending events at critical points.
977 process pending events at critical points.
978
978
979 Finally, we also have a number of examples in our source directory
979 Finally, we also have a number of examples in our source directory
980 :file:`examples/lib` that demonstrate these capabilities.
980 :file:`examples/lib` that demonstrate these capabilities.
981
981
982 PyQt and PySide
982 PyQt and PySide
983 ---------------
983 ---------------
984
984
985 .. attempt at explanation of the complete mess that is Qt support
985 .. attempt at explanation of the complete mess that is Qt support
986
986
987 When you use ``--gui=qt`` or ``--matplotlib=qt``, IPython can work with either
987 When you use ``--gui=qt`` or ``--matplotlib=qt``, IPython can work with either
988 PyQt4 or PySide. There are three options for configuration here, because
988 PyQt4 or PySide. There are three options for configuration here, because
989 PyQt4 has two APIs for QString and QVariant - v1, which is the default on
989 PyQt4 has two APIs for QString and QVariant - v1, which is the default on
990 Python 2, and the more natural v2, which is the only API supported by PySide.
990 Python 2, and the more natural v2, which is the only API supported by PySide.
991 v2 is also the default for PyQt4 on Python 3. IPython's code for the QtConsole
991 v2 is also the default for PyQt4 on Python 3. IPython's code for the QtConsole
992 uses v2, but you can still use any interface in your code, since the
992 uses v2, but you can still use any interface in your code, since the
993 Qt frontend is in a different process.
993 Qt frontend is in a different process.
994
994
995 The default will be to import PyQt4 without configuration of the APIs, thus
995 The default will be to import PyQt4 without configuration of the APIs, thus
996 matching what most applications would expect. It will fall back of PySide if
996 matching what most applications would expect. It will fall back of PySide if
997 PyQt4 is unavailable.
997 PyQt4 is unavailable.
998
998
999 If specified, IPython will respect the environment variable ``QT_API`` used
999 If specified, IPython will respect the environment variable ``QT_API`` used
1000 by ETS. ETS 4.0 also works with both PyQt4 and PySide, but it requires
1000 by ETS. ETS 4.0 also works with both PyQt4 and PySide, but it requires
1001 PyQt4 to use its v2 API. So if ``QT_API=pyside`` PySide will be used,
1001 PyQt4 to use its v2 API. So if ``QT_API=pyside`` PySide will be used,
1002 and if ``QT_API=pyqt`` then PyQt4 will be used *with the v2 API* for
1002 and if ``QT_API=pyqt`` then PyQt4 will be used *with the v2 API* for
1003 QString and QVariant, so ETS codes like MayaVi will also work with IPython.
1003 QString and QVariant, so ETS codes like MayaVi will also work with IPython.
1004
1004
1005 If you launch IPython in matplotlib mode with ``ipython --matplotlib=qt``,
1005 If you launch IPython in matplotlib mode with ``ipython --matplotlib=qt``,
1006 then IPython will ask matplotlib which Qt library to use (only if QT_API is
1006 then IPython will ask matplotlib which Qt library to use (only if QT_API is
1007 *not set*), via the 'backend.qt4' rcParam. If matplotlib is version 1.0.1 or
1007 *not set*), via the 'backend.qt4' rcParam. If matplotlib is version 1.0.1 or
1008 older, then IPython will always use PyQt4 without setting the v2 APIs, since
1008 older, then IPython will always use PyQt4 without setting the v2 APIs, since
1009 neither v2 PyQt nor PySide work.
1009 neither v2 PyQt nor PySide work.
1010
1010
1011 .. warning::
1011 .. warning::
1012
1012
1013 Note that this means for ETS 4 to work with PyQt4, ``QT_API`` *must* be set
1013 Note that this means for ETS 4 to work with PyQt4, ``QT_API`` *must* be set
1014 to work with IPython's qt integration, because otherwise PyQt4 will be
1014 to work with IPython's qt integration, because otherwise PyQt4 will be
1015 loaded in an incompatible mode.
1015 loaded in an incompatible mode.
1016
1016
1017 It also means that you must *not* have ``QT_API`` set if you want to
1017 It also means that you must *not* have ``QT_API`` set if you want to
1018 use ``--gui=qt`` with code that requires PyQt4 API v1.
1018 use ``--gui=qt`` with code that requires PyQt4 API v1.
1019
1019
1020
1020
1021 .. _matplotlib_support:
1021 .. _matplotlib_support:
1022
1022
1023 Plotting with matplotlib
1023 Plotting with matplotlib
1024 ========================
1024 ========================
1025
1025
1026 matplotlib_ provides high quality 2D and 3D plotting for Python. matplotlib_
1026 matplotlib_ provides high quality 2D and 3D plotting for Python. matplotlib_
1027 can produce plots on screen using a variety of GUI toolkits, including Tk,
1027 can produce plots on screen using a variety of GUI toolkits, including Tk,
1028 PyGTK, PyQt4 and wxPython. It also provides a number of commands useful for
1028 PyGTK, PyQt4 and wxPython. It also provides a number of commands useful for
1029 scientific computing, all with a syntax compatible with that of the popular
1029 scientific computing, all with a syntax compatible with that of the popular
1030 Matlab program.
1030 Matlab program.
1031
1031
1032 To start IPython with matplotlib support, use the ``--matplotlib`` switch. If
1032 To start IPython with matplotlib support, use the ``--matplotlib`` switch. If
1033 IPython is already running, you can run the ``%matplotlib`` magic. If no
1033 IPython is already running, you can run the ``%matplotlib`` magic. If no
1034 arguments are given, IPython will automatically detect your choice of
1034 arguments are given, IPython will automatically detect your choice of
1035 matplotlib backend. You can also request a specific backend with
1035 matplotlib backend. You can also request a specific backend with
1036 ``%matplotlib backend``, where ``backend`` must be one of: 'tk', 'qt', 'wx',
1036 ``%matplotlib backend``, where ``backend`` must be one of: 'tk', 'qt', 'wx',
1037 'gtk', 'osx'. In the web notebook and Qt console, 'inline' is also a valid
1037 'gtk', 'osx'. In the web notebook and Qt console, 'inline' is also a valid
1038 backend value, which produces static figures inlined inside the application
1038 backend value, which produces static figures inlined inside the application
1039 window instead of matplotlib's interactive figures that live in separate
1039 window instead of matplotlib's interactive figures that live in separate
1040 windows.
1040 windows.
1041
1041
1042 .. _interactive_demos:
1042 .. _interactive_demos:
1043
1043
1044 Interactive demos with IPython
1044 Interactive demos with IPython
1045 ==============================
1045 ==============================
1046
1046
1047 IPython ships with a basic system for running scripts interactively in
1047 IPython ships with a basic system for running scripts interactively in
1048 sections, useful when presenting code to audiences. A few tags embedded
1048 sections, useful when presenting code to audiences. A few tags embedded
1049 in comments (so that the script remains valid Python code) divide a file
1049 in comments (so that the script remains valid Python code) divide a file
1050 into separate blocks, and the demo can be run one block at a time, with
1050 into separate blocks, and the demo can be run one block at a time, with
1051 IPython printing (with syntax highlighting) the block before executing
1051 IPython printing (with syntax highlighting) the block before executing
1052 it, and returning to the interactive prompt after each block. The
1052 it, and returning to the interactive prompt after each block. The
1053 interactive namespace is updated after each block is run with the
1053 interactive namespace is updated after each block is run with the
1054 contents of the demo's namespace.
1054 contents of the demo's namespace.
1055
1055
1056 This allows you to show a piece of code, run it and then execute
1056 This allows you to show a piece of code, run it and then execute
1057 interactively commands based on the variables just created. Once you
1057 interactively commands based on the variables just created. Once you
1058 want to continue, you simply execute the next block of the demo. The
1058 want to continue, you simply execute the next block of the demo. The
1059 following listing shows the markup necessary for dividing a script into
1059 following listing shows the markup necessary for dividing a script into
1060 sections for execution as a demo:
1060 sections for execution as a demo:
1061
1061
1062 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/lib/example-demo.py
1062 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/IPython Kernel/example-demo.py
1063 :language: python
1063 :language: python
1064
1064
1065 In order to run a file as a demo, you must first make a Demo object out
1065 In order to run a file as a demo, you must first make a Demo object out
1066 of it. If the file is named myscript.py, the following code will make a
1066 of it. If the file is named myscript.py, the following code will make a
1067 demo::
1067 demo::
1068
1068
1069 from IPython.lib.demo import Demo
1069 from IPython.lib.demo import Demo
1070
1070
1071 mydemo = Demo('myscript.py')
1071 mydemo = Demo('myscript.py')
1072
1072
1073 This creates the mydemo object, whose blocks you run one at a time by
1073 This creates the mydemo object, whose blocks you run one at a time by
1074 simply calling the object with no arguments. Then call it to run each step
1074 simply calling the object with no arguments. Then call it to run each step
1075 of the demo::
1075 of the demo::
1076
1076
1077 mydemo()
1077 mydemo()
1078
1078
1079 Demo objects can be
1079 Demo objects can be
1080 restarted, you can move forward or back skipping blocks, re-execute the
1080 restarted, you can move forward or back skipping blocks, re-execute the
1081 last block, etc. See the :mod:`IPython.lib.demo` module and the
1081 last block, etc. See the :mod:`IPython.lib.demo` module and the
1082 :class:`~IPython.lib.demo.Demo` class for details.
1082 :class:`~IPython.lib.demo.Demo` class for details.
1083
1083
1084 Limitations: These demos are limited to
1084 Limitations: These demos are limited to
1085 fairly simple uses. In particular, you cannot break up sections within
1085 fairly simple uses. In particular, you cannot break up sections within
1086 indented code (loops, if statements, function definitions, etc.)
1086 indented code (loops, if statements, function definitions, etc.)
1087 Supporting something like this would basically require tracking the
1087 Supporting something like this would basically require tracking the
1088 internal execution state of the Python interpreter, so only top-level
1088 internal execution state of the Python interpreter, so only top-level
1089 divisions are allowed. If you want to be able to open an IPython
1089 divisions are allowed. If you want to be able to open an IPython
1090 instance at an arbitrary point in a program, you can use IPython's
1090 instance at an arbitrary point in a program, you can use IPython's
1091 :ref:`embedding facilities <Embedding>`.
1091 :ref:`embedding facilities <Embedding>`.
1092
1092
1093 .. include:: ../links.txt
1093 .. include:: ../links.txt
@@ -1,150 +1,150 b''
1 .. _parallel_asyncresult:
1 .. _parallel_asyncresult:
2
2
3 ======================
3 ======================
4 The AsyncResult object
4 The AsyncResult object
5 ======================
5 ======================
6
6
7 In non-blocking mode, :meth:`apply` submits the command to be executed and
7 In non-blocking mode, :meth:`apply` submits the command to be executed and
8 then returns a :class:`~.AsyncResult` object immediately. The
8 then returns a :class:`~.AsyncResult` object immediately. The
9 AsyncResult object gives you a way of getting a result at a later
9 AsyncResult object gives you a way of getting a result at a later
10 time through its :meth:`get` method, but it also collects metadata
10 time through its :meth:`get` method, but it also collects metadata
11 on execution.
11 on execution.
12
12
13
13
14 Beyond multiprocessing's AsyncResult
14 Beyond multiprocessing's AsyncResult
15 ====================================
15 ====================================
16
16
17 .. Note::
17 .. Note::
18
18
19 The :class:`~.AsyncResult` object provides a superset of the interface in
19 The :class:`~.AsyncResult` object provides a superset of the interface in
20 :py:class:`multiprocessing.pool.AsyncResult`. See the
20 :py:class:`multiprocessing.pool.AsyncResult`. See the
21 `official Python documentation <http://docs.python.org/library/multiprocessing#multiprocessing.pool.AsyncResult>`_
21 `official Python documentation <http://docs.python.org/library/multiprocessing#multiprocessing.pool.AsyncResult>`_
22 for more on the basics of this interface.
22 for more on the basics of this interface.
23
23
24 Our AsyncResult objects add a number of convenient features for working with
24 Our AsyncResult objects add a number of convenient features for working with
25 parallel results, beyond what is provided by the original AsyncResult.
25 parallel results, beyond what is provided by the original AsyncResult.
26
26
27
27
28 get_dict
28 get_dict
29 --------
29 --------
30
30
31 First, is :meth:`.AsyncResult.get_dict`, which pulls results as a dictionary
31 First, is :meth:`.AsyncResult.get_dict`, which pulls results as a dictionary
32 keyed by engine_id, rather than a flat list. This is useful for quickly
32 keyed by engine_id, rather than a flat list. This is useful for quickly
33 coordinating or distributing information about all of the engines.
33 coordinating or distributing information about all of the engines.
34
34
35 As an example, here is a quick call that gives every engine a dict showing
35 As an example, here is a quick call that gives every engine a dict showing
36 the PID of every other engine:
36 the PID of every other engine:
37
37
38 .. sourcecode:: ipython
38 .. sourcecode:: ipython
39
39
40 In [10]: ar = rc[:].apply_async(os.getpid)
40 In [10]: ar = rc[:].apply_async(os.getpid)
41 In [11]: pids = ar.get_dict()
41 In [11]: pids = ar.get_dict()
42 In [12]: rc[:]['pid_map'] = pids
42 In [12]: rc[:]['pid_map'] = pids
43
43
44 This trick is particularly useful when setting up inter-engine communication,
44 This trick is particularly useful when setting up inter-engine communication,
45 as in IPython's :file:`examples/parallel/interengine` examples.
45 as in IPython's :file:`examples/parallel/interengine` examples.
46
46
47
47
48 Metadata
48 Metadata
49 ========
49 ========
50
50
51 IPython.parallel tracks some metadata about the tasks, which is stored
51 IPython.parallel tracks some metadata about the tasks, which is stored
52 in the :attr:`.Client.metadata` dict. The AsyncResult object gives you an
52 in the :attr:`.Client.metadata` dict. The AsyncResult object gives you an
53 interface for this information as well, including timestamps stdout/err,
53 interface for this information as well, including timestamps stdout/err,
54 and engine IDs.
54 and engine IDs.
55
55
56
56
57 Timing
57 Timing
58 ------
58 ------
59
59
60 IPython tracks various timestamps as :py:class:`.datetime` objects,
60 IPython tracks various timestamps as :py:class:`.datetime` objects,
61 and the AsyncResult object has a few properties that turn these into useful
61 and the AsyncResult object has a few properties that turn these into useful
62 times (in seconds as floats).
62 times (in seconds as floats).
63
63
64 For use while the tasks are still pending:
64 For use while the tasks are still pending:
65
65
66 * :attr:`ar.elapsed` is just the elapsed seconds since submission, for use
66 * :attr:`ar.elapsed` is just the elapsed seconds since submission, for use
67 before the AsyncResult is complete.
67 before the AsyncResult is complete.
68 * :attr:`ar.progress` is the number of tasks that have completed. Fractional progress
68 * :attr:`ar.progress` is the number of tasks that have completed. Fractional progress
69 would be::
69 would be::
70
70
71 1.0 * ar.progress / len(ar)
71 1.0 * ar.progress / len(ar)
72
72
73 * :meth:`AsyncResult.wait_interactive` will wait for the result to finish, but
73 * :meth:`AsyncResult.wait_interactive` will wait for the result to finish, but
74 print out status updates on progress and elapsed time while it waits.
74 print out status updates on progress and elapsed time while it waits.
75
75
76 For use after the tasks are done:
76 For use after the tasks are done:
77
77
78 * :attr:`ar.serial_time` is the sum of the computation time of all of the tasks
78 * :attr:`ar.serial_time` is the sum of the computation time of all of the tasks
79 done in parallel.
79 done in parallel.
80 * :attr:`ar.wall_time` is the time between the first task submitted and last result
80 * :attr:`ar.wall_time` is the time between the first task submitted and last result
81 received. This is the actual cost of computation, including IPython overhead.
81 received. This is the actual cost of computation, including IPython overhead.
82
82
83
83
84 .. note::
84 .. note::
85
85
86 wall_time is only precise if the Client is waiting for results when
86 wall_time is only precise if the Client is waiting for results when
87 the task finished, because the `received` timestamp is made when the result is
87 the task finished, because the `received` timestamp is made when the result is
88 unpacked by the Client, triggered by the :meth:`~Client.spin` call. If you
88 unpacked by the Client, triggered by the :meth:`~Client.spin` call. If you
89 are doing work in the Client, and not waiting/spinning, then `received` might
89 are doing work in the Client, and not waiting/spinning, then `received` might
90 be artificially high.
90 be artificially high.
91
91
92 An often interesting metric is the time it actually cost to do the work in parallel
92 An often interesting metric is the time it actually cost to do the work in parallel
93 relative to the serial computation, and this can be given simply with
93 relative to the serial computation, and this can be given simply with
94
94
95 .. sourcecode:: python
95 .. sourcecode:: python
96
96
97 speedup = ar.serial_time / ar.wall_time
97 speedup = ar.serial_time / ar.wall_time
98
98
99
99
100 Map results are iterable!
100 Map results are iterable!
101 =========================
101 =========================
102
102
103 When an AsyncResult object has multiple results (e.g. the :class:`~AsyncMapResult`
103 When an AsyncResult object has multiple results (e.g. the :class:`~AsyncMapResult`
104 object), you can actually iterate through results themselves, and act on them as they arrive:
104 object), you can actually iterate through results themselves, and act on them as they arrive:
105
105
106 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/parallel/itermapresult.py
106 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/Parallel Computing/itermapresult.py
107 :language: python
107 :language: python
108 :lines: 20-67
108 :lines: 20-67
109
109
110 That is to say, if you treat an AsyncMapResult as if it were a list of your actual
110 That is to say, if you treat an AsyncMapResult as if it were a list of your actual
111 results, it should behave as you would expect, with the only difference being
111 results, it should behave as you would expect, with the only difference being
112 that you can start iterating through the results before they have even been computed.
112 that you can start iterating through the results before they have even been computed.
113
113
114 This lets you do a dumb version of map/reduce with the builtin Python functions,
114 This lets you do a dumb version of map/reduce with the builtin Python functions,
115 and the only difference between doing this locally and doing it remotely in parallel
115 and the only difference between doing this locally and doing it remotely in parallel
116 is using the asynchronous view.map instead of the builtin map.
116 is using the asynchronous view.map instead of the builtin map.
117
117
118
118
119 Here is a simple one-line RMS (root-mean-square) implemented with Python's builtin map/reduce.
119 Here is a simple one-line RMS (root-mean-square) implemented with Python's builtin map/reduce.
120
120
121 .. sourcecode:: ipython
121 .. sourcecode:: ipython
122
122
123 In [38]: X = np.linspace(0,100)
123 In [38]: X = np.linspace(0,100)
124
124
125 In [39]: from math import sqrt
125 In [39]: from math import sqrt
126
126
127 In [40]: add = lambda a,b: a+b
127 In [40]: add = lambda a,b: a+b
128
128
129 In [41]: sq = lambda x: x*x
129 In [41]: sq = lambda x: x*x
130
130
131 In [42]: sqrt(reduce(add, map(sq, X)) / len(X))
131 In [42]: sqrt(reduce(add, map(sq, X)) / len(X))
132 Out[42]: 58.028845747399714
132 Out[42]: 58.028845747399714
133
133
134 In [43]: sqrt(reduce(add, view.map(sq, X)) / len(X))
134 In [43]: sqrt(reduce(add, view.map(sq, X)) / len(X))
135 Out[43]: 58.028845747399714
135 Out[43]: 58.028845747399714
136
136
137 To break that down:
137 To break that down:
138
138
139 1. ``map(sq, X)`` Compute the square of each element in the list (locally, or in parallel)
139 1. ``map(sq, X)`` Compute the square of each element in the list (locally, or in parallel)
140 2. ``reduce(add, sqX) / len(X)`` compute the mean by summing over the list (or AsyncMapResult)
140 2. ``reduce(add, sqX) / len(X)`` compute the mean by summing over the list (or AsyncMapResult)
141 and dividing by the size
141 and dividing by the size
142 3. take the square root of the resulting number
142 3. take the square root of the resulting number
143
143
144 .. seealso::
144 .. seealso::
145
145
146 When AsyncResult or the AsyncMapResult don't provide what you need (for instance,
146 When AsyncResult or the AsyncMapResult don't provide what you need (for instance,
147 handling individual results as they arrive, but with metadata), you can always
147 handling individual results as they arrive, but with metadata), you can always
148 just split the original result's ``msg_ids`` attribute, and handle them as you like.
148 just split the original result's ``msg_ids`` attribute, and handle them as you like.
149
149
150 For an example of this, see :file:`examples/parallel/customresult.py`
150 For an example of this, see :file:`examples/parallel/customresult.py`
@@ -1,177 +1,177 b''
1 .. _dag_dependencies:
1 .. _dag_dependencies:
2
2
3 ================
3 ================
4 DAG Dependencies
4 DAG Dependencies
5 ================
5 ================
6
6
7 Often, parallel workflow is described in terms of a `Directed Acyclic Graph
7 Often, parallel workflow is described in terms of a `Directed Acyclic Graph
8 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Directed_acyclic_graph>`_ or DAG. A popular library
8 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Directed_acyclic_graph>`_ or DAG. A popular library
9 for working with Graphs is NetworkX_. Here, we will walk through a demo mapping
9 for working with Graphs is NetworkX_. Here, we will walk through a demo mapping
10 a nx DAG to task dependencies.
10 a nx DAG to task dependencies.
11
11
12 The full script that runs this demo can be found in
12 The full script that runs this demo can be found in
13 :file:`examples/parallel/dagdeps.py`.
13 :file:`examples/parallel/dagdeps.py`.
14
14
15 Why are DAGs good for task dependencies?
15 Why are DAGs good for task dependencies?
16 ----------------------------------------
16 ----------------------------------------
17
17
18 The 'G' in DAG is 'Graph'. A Graph is a collection of **nodes** and **edges** that connect
18 The 'G' in DAG is 'Graph'. A Graph is a collection of **nodes** and **edges** that connect
19 the nodes. For our purposes, each node would be a task, and each edge would be a
19 the nodes. For our purposes, each node would be a task, and each edge would be a
20 dependency. The 'D' in DAG stands for 'Directed'. This means that each edge has a
20 dependency. The 'D' in DAG stands for 'Directed'. This means that each edge has a
21 direction associated with it. So we can interpret the edge (a,b) as meaning that b depends
21 direction associated with it. So we can interpret the edge (a,b) as meaning that b depends
22 on a, whereas the edge (b,a) would mean a depends on b. The 'A' is 'Acyclic', meaning that
22 on a, whereas the edge (b,a) would mean a depends on b. The 'A' is 'Acyclic', meaning that
23 there must not be any closed loops in the graph. This is important for dependencies,
23 there must not be any closed loops in the graph. This is important for dependencies,
24 because if a loop were closed, then a task could ultimately depend on itself, and never be
24 because if a loop were closed, then a task could ultimately depend on itself, and never be
25 able to run. If your workflow can be described as a DAG, then it is impossible for your
25 able to run. If your workflow can be described as a DAG, then it is impossible for your
26 dependencies to cause a deadlock.
26 dependencies to cause a deadlock.
27
27
28 A Sample DAG
28 A Sample DAG
29 ------------
29 ------------
30
30
31 Here, we have a very simple 5-node DAG:
31 Here, we have a very simple 5-node DAG:
32
32
33 .. figure:: figs/simpledag.*
33 .. figure:: figs/simpledag.*
34 :width: 600px
34 :width: 600px
35
35
36 With NetworkX, an arrow is just a fattened bit on the edge. Here, we can see that task 0
36 With NetworkX, an arrow is just a fattened bit on the edge. Here, we can see that task 0
37 depends on nothing, and can run immediately. 1 and 2 depend on 0; 3 depends on
37 depends on nothing, and can run immediately. 1 and 2 depend on 0; 3 depends on
38 1 and 2; and 4 depends only on 1.
38 1 and 2; and 4 depends only on 1.
39
39
40 A possible sequence of events for this workflow:
40 A possible sequence of events for this workflow:
41
41
42 0. Task 0 can run right away
42 0. Task 0 can run right away
43 1. 0 finishes, so 1,2 can start
43 1. 0 finishes, so 1,2 can start
44 2. 1 finishes, 3 is still waiting on 2, but 4 can start right away
44 2. 1 finishes, 3 is still waiting on 2, but 4 can start right away
45 3. 2 finishes, and 3 can finally start
45 3. 2 finishes, and 3 can finally start
46
46
47
47
48 Further, taking failures into account, assuming all dependencies are run with the default
48 Further, taking failures into account, assuming all dependencies are run with the default
49 `success=True,failure=False`, the following cases would occur for each node's failure:
49 `success=True,failure=False`, the following cases would occur for each node's failure:
50
50
51 0. fails: all other tasks fail as Impossible
51 0. fails: all other tasks fail as Impossible
52 1. 2 can still succeed, but 3,4 are unreachable
52 1. 2 can still succeed, but 3,4 are unreachable
53 2. 3 becomes unreachable, but 4 is unaffected
53 2. 3 becomes unreachable, but 4 is unaffected
54 3. and 4. are terminal, and can have no effect on other nodes
54 3. and 4. are terminal, and can have no effect on other nodes
55
55
56 The code to generate the simple DAG:
56 The code to generate the simple DAG:
57
57
58 .. sourcecode:: python
58 .. sourcecode:: python
59
59
60 import networkx as nx
60 import networkx as nx
61
61
62 G = nx.DiGraph()
62 G = nx.DiGraph()
63
63
64 # add 5 nodes, labeled 0-4:
64 # add 5 nodes, labeled 0-4:
65 map(G.add_node, range(5))
65 map(G.add_node, range(5))
66 # 1,2 depend on 0:
66 # 1,2 depend on 0:
67 G.add_edge(0,1)
67 G.add_edge(0,1)
68 G.add_edge(0,2)
68 G.add_edge(0,2)
69 # 3 depends on 1,2
69 # 3 depends on 1,2
70 G.add_edge(1,3)
70 G.add_edge(1,3)
71 G.add_edge(2,3)
71 G.add_edge(2,3)
72 # 4 depends on 1
72 # 4 depends on 1
73 G.add_edge(1,4)
73 G.add_edge(1,4)
74
74
75 # now draw the graph:
75 # now draw the graph:
76 pos = { 0 : (0,0), 1 : (1,1), 2 : (-1,1),
76 pos = { 0 : (0,0), 1 : (1,1), 2 : (-1,1),
77 3 : (0,2), 4 : (2,2)}
77 3 : (0,2), 4 : (2,2)}
78 nx.draw(G, pos, edge_color='r')
78 nx.draw(G, pos, edge_color='r')
79
79
80
80
81 For demonstration purposes, we have a function that generates a random DAG with a given
81 For demonstration purposes, we have a function that generates a random DAG with a given
82 number of nodes and edges.
82 number of nodes and edges.
83
83
84 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/parallel/dagdeps.py
84 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/Parallel Computing/dagdeps.py
85 :language: python
85 :language: python
86 :lines: 20-36
86 :lines: 20-36
87
87
88 So first, we start with a graph of 32 nodes, with 128 edges:
88 So first, we start with a graph of 32 nodes, with 128 edges:
89
89
90 .. sourcecode:: ipython
90 .. sourcecode:: ipython
91
91
92 In [2]: G = random_dag(32,128)
92 In [2]: G = random_dag(32,128)
93
93
94 Now, we need to build our dict of jobs corresponding to the nodes on the graph:
94 Now, we need to build our dict of jobs corresponding to the nodes on the graph:
95
95
96 .. sourcecode:: ipython
96 .. sourcecode:: ipython
97
97
98 In [3]: jobs = {}
98 In [3]: jobs = {}
99
99
100 # in reality, each job would presumably be different
100 # in reality, each job would presumably be different
101 # randomwait is just a function that sleeps for a random interval
101 # randomwait is just a function that sleeps for a random interval
102 In [4]: for node in G:
102 In [4]: for node in G:
103 ...: jobs[node] = randomwait
103 ...: jobs[node] = randomwait
104
104
105 Once we have a dict of jobs matching the nodes on the graph, we can start submitting jobs,
105 Once we have a dict of jobs matching the nodes on the graph, we can start submitting jobs,
106 and linking up the dependencies. Since we don't know a job's msg_id until it is submitted,
106 and linking up the dependencies. Since we don't know a job's msg_id until it is submitted,
107 which is necessary for building dependencies, it is critical that we don't submit any jobs
107 which is necessary for building dependencies, it is critical that we don't submit any jobs
108 before other jobs it may depend on. Fortunately, NetworkX provides a
108 before other jobs it may depend on. Fortunately, NetworkX provides a
109 :meth:`topological_sort` method which ensures exactly this. It presents an iterable, that
109 :meth:`topological_sort` method which ensures exactly this. It presents an iterable, that
110 guarantees that when you arrive at a node, you have already visited all the nodes it
110 guarantees that when you arrive at a node, you have already visited all the nodes it
111 on which it depends:
111 on which it depends:
112
112
113 .. sourcecode:: ipython
113 .. sourcecode:: ipython
114
114
115 In [5]: rc = Client()
115 In [5]: rc = Client()
116 In [5]: view = rc.load_balanced_view()
116 In [5]: view = rc.load_balanced_view()
117
117
118 In [6]: results = {}
118 In [6]: results = {}
119
119
120 In [7]: for node in nx.topological_sort(G):
120 In [7]: for node in nx.topological_sort(G):
121 ...: # get list of AsyncResult objects from nodes
121 ...: # get list of AsyncResult objects from nodes
122 ...: # leading into this one as dependencies
122 ...: # leading into this one as dependencies
123 ...: deps = [ results[n] for n in G.predecessors(node) ]
123 ...: deps = [ results[n] for n in G.predecessors(node) ]
124 ...: # submit and store AsyncResult object
124 ...: # submit and store AsyncResult object
125 ...: with view.temp_flags(after=deps, block=False):
125 ...: with view.temp_flags(after=deps, block=False):
126 ...: results[node] = view.apply_with_flags(jobs[node])
126 ...: results[node] = view.apply_with_flags(jobs[node])
127
127
128
128
129 Now that we have submitted all the jobs, we can wait for the results:
129 Now that we have submitted all the jobs, we can wait for the results:
130
130
131 .. sourcecode:: ipython
131 .. sourcecode:: ipython
132
132
133 In [8]: view.wait(results.values())
133 In [8]: view.wait(results.values())
134
134
135 Now, at least we know that all the jobs ran and did not fail (``r.get()`` would have
135 Now, at least we know that all the jobs ran and did not fail (``r.get()`` would have
136 raised an error if a task failed). But we don't know that the ordering was properly
136 raised an error if a task failed). But we don't know that the ordering was properly
137 respected. For this, we can use the :attr:`metadata` attribute of each AsyncResult.
137 respected. For this, we can use the :attr:`metadata` attribute of each AsyncResult.
138
138
139 These objects store a variety of metadata about each task, including various timestamps.
139 These objects store a variety of metadata about each task, including various timestamps.
140 We can validate that the dependencies were respected by checking that each task was
140 We can validate that the dependencies were respected by checking that each task was
141 started after all of its predecessors were completed:
141 started after all of its predecessors were completed:
142
142
143 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/parallel/dagdeps.py
143 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/Parallel Computing/dagdeps.py
144 :language: python
144 :language: python
145 :lines: 64-70
145 :lines: 64-70
146
146
147 We can also validate the graph visually. By drawing the graph with each node's x-position
147 We can also validate the graph visually. By drawing the graph with each node's x-position
148 as its start time, all arrows must be pointing to the right if dependencies were respected.
148 as its start time, all arrows must be pointing to the right if dependencies were respected.
149 For spreading, the y-position will be the runtime of the task, so long tasks
149 For spreading, the y-position will be the runtime of the task, so long tasks
150 will be at the top, and quick, small tasks will be at the bottom.
150 will be at the top, and quick, small tasks will be at the bottom.
151
151
152 .. sourcecode:: ipython
152 .. sourcecode:: ipython
153
153
154 In [10]: from matplotlib.dates import date2num
154 In [10]: from matplotlib.dates import date2num
155
155
156 In [11]: from matplotlib.cm import gist_rainbow
156 In [11]: from matplotlib.cm import gist_rainbow
157
157
158 In [12]: pos = {}; colors = {}
158 In [12]: pos = {}; colors = {}
159
159
160 In [12]: for node in G:
160 In [12]: for node in G:
161 ....: md = results[node].metadata
161 ....: md = results[node].metadata
162 ....: start = date2num(md.started)
162 ....: start = date2num(md.started)
163 ....: runtime = date2num(md.completed) - start
163 ....: runtime = date2num(md.completed) - start
164 ....: pos[node] = (start, runtime)
164 ....: pos[node] = (start, runtime)
165 ....: colors[node] = md.engine_id
165 ....: colors[node] = md.engine_id
166
166
167 In [13]: nx.draw(G, pos, node_list=colors.keys(), node_color=colors.values(),
167 In [13]: nx.draw(G, pos, node_list=colors.keys(), node_color=colors.values(),
168 ....: cmap=gist_rainbow)
168 ....: cmap=gist_rainbow)
169
169
170 .. figure:: figs/dagdeps.*
170 .. figure:: figs/dagdeps.*
171 :width: 600px
171 :width: 600px
172
172
173 Time started on x, runtime on y, and color-coded by engine-id (in this case there
173 Time started on x, runtime on y, and color-coded by engine-id (in this case there
174 were four engines). Edges denote dependencies.
174 were four engines). Edges denote dependencies.
175
175
176
176
177 .. _NetworkX: http://networkx.lanl.gov/
177 .. _NetworkX: http://networkx.lanl.gov/
@@ -1,208 +1,208 b''
1 .. _parallel_examples:
1 .. _parallel_examples:
2
2
3 =================
3 =================
4 Parallel examples
4 Parallel examples
5 =================
5 =================
6
6
7 In this section we describe two more involved examples of using an IPython
7 In this section we describe two more involved examples of using an IPython
8 cluster to perform a parallel computation. We will be doing some plotting,
8 cluster to perform a parallel computation. We will be doing some plotting,
9 so we start IPython with matplotlib integration by typing::
9 so we start IPython with matplotlib integration by typing::
10
10
11 ipython --matplotlib
11 ipython --matplotlib
12
12
13 at the system command line.
13 at the system command line.
14 Or you can enable matplotlib integration at any point with:
14 Or you can enable matplotlib integration at any point with:
15
15
16 .. sourcecode:: ipython
16 .. sourcecode:: ipython
17
17
18 In [1]: %matplotlib
18 In [1]: %matplotlib
19
19
20
20
21 150 million digits of pi
21 150 million digits of pi
22 ========================
22 ========================
23
23
24 In this example we would like to study the distribution of digits in the
24 In this example we would like to study the distribution of digits in the
25 number pi (in base 10). While it is not known if pi is a normal number (a
25 number pi (in base 10). While it is not known if pi is a normal number (a
26 number is normal in base 10 if 0-9 occur with equal likelihood) numerical
26 number is normal in base 10 if 0-9 occur with equal likelihood) numerical
27 investigations suggest that it is. We will begin with a serial calculation on
27 investigations suggest that it is. We will begin with a serial calculation on
28 10,000 digits of pi and then perform a parallel calculation involving 150
28 10,000 digits of pi and then perform a parallel calculation involving 150
29 million digits.
29 million digits.
30
30
31 In both the serial and parallel calculation we will be using functions defined
31 In both the serial and parallel calculation we will be using functions defined
32 in the :file:`pidigits.py` file, which is available in the
32 in the :file:`pidigits.py` file, which is available in the
33 :file:`examples/parallel` directory of the IPython source distribution.
33 :file:`examples/parallel` directory of the IPython source distribution.
34 These functions provide basic facilities for working with the digits of pi and
34 These functions provide basic facilities for working with the digits of pi and
35 can be loaded into IPython by putting :file:`pidigits.py` in your current
35 can be loaded into IPython by putting :file:`pidigits.py` in your current
36 working directory and then doing:
36 working directory and then doing:
37
37
38 .. sourcecode:: ipython
38 .. sourcecode:: ipython
39
39
40 In [1]: run pidigits.py
40 In [1]: run pidigits.py
41
41
42 Serial calculation
42 Serial calculation
43 ------------------
43 ------------------
44
44
45 For the serial calculation, we will use `SymPy <http://www.sympy.org>`_ to
45 For the serial calculation, we will use `SymPy <http://www.sympy.org>`_ to
46 calculate 10,000 digits of pi and then look at the frequencies of the digits
46 calculate 10,000 digits of pi and then look at the frequencies of the digits
47 0-9. Out of 10,000 digits, we expect each digit to occur 1,000 times. While
47 0-9. Out of 10,000 digits, we expect each digit to occur 1,000 times. While
48 SymPy is capable of calculating many more digits of pi, our purpose here is to
48 SymPy is capable of calculating many more digits of pi, our purpose here is to
49 set the stage for the much larger parallel calculation.
49 set the stage for the much larger parallel calculation.
50
50
51 In this example, we use two functions from :file:`pidigits.py`:
51 In this example, we use two functions from :file:`pidigits.py`:
52 :func:`one_digit_freqs` (which calculates how many times each digit occurs)
52 :func:`one_digit_freqs` (which calculates how many times each digit occurs)
53 and :func:`plot_one_digit_freqs` (which uses Matplotlib to plot the result).
53 and :func:`plot_one_digit_freqs` (which uses Matplotlib to plot the result).
54 Here is an interactive IPython session that uses these functions with
54 Here is an interactive IPython session that uses these functions with
55 SymPy:
55 SymPy:
56
56
57 .. sourcecode:: ipython
57 .. sourcecode:: ipython
58
58
59 In [7]: import sympy
59 In [7]: import sympy
60
60
61 In [8]: pi = sympy.pi.evalf(40)
61 In [8]: pi = sympy.pi.evalf(40)
62
62
63 In [9]: pi
63 In [9]: pi
64 Out[9]: 3.141592653589793238462643383279502884197
64 Out[9]: 3.141592653589793238462643383279502884197
65
65
66 In [10]: pi = sympy.pi.evalf(10000)
66 In [10]: pi = sympy.pi.evalf(10000)
67
67
68 In [11]: digits = (d for d in str(pi)[2:]) # create a sequence of digits
68 In [11]: digits = (d for d in str(pi)[2:]) # create a sequence of digits
69
69
70 In [13]: freqs = one_digit_freqs(digits)
70 In [13]: freqs = one_digit_freqs(digits)
71
71
72 In [14]: plot_one_digit_freqs(freqs)
72 In [14]: plot_one_digit_freqs(freqs)
73 Out[14]: [<matplotlib.lines.Line2D object at 0x18a55290>]
73 Out[14]: [<matplotlib.lines.Line2D object at 0x18a55290>]
74
74
75 The resulting plot of the single digit counts shows that each digit occurs
75 The resulting plot of the single digit counts shows that each digit occurs
76 approximately 1,000 times, but that with only 10,000 digits the
76 approximately 1,000 times, but that with only 10,000 digits the
77 statistical fluctuations are still rather large:
77 statistical fluctuations are still rather large:
78
78
79 .. image:: figs/single_digits.*
79 .. image:: figs/single_digits.*
80
80
81 It is clear that to reduce the relative fluctuations in the counts, we need
81 It is clear that to reduce the relative fluctuations in the counts, we need
82 to look at many more digits of pi. That brings us to the parallel calculation.
82 to look at many more digits of pi. That brings us to the parallel calculation.
83
83
84 Parallel calculation
84 Parallel calculation
85 --------------------
85 --------------------
86
86
87 Calculating many digits of pi is a challenging computational problem in itself.
87 Calculating many digits of pi is a challenging computational problem in itself.
88 Because we want to focus on the distribution of digits in this example, we
88 Because we want to focus on the distribution of digits in this example, we
89 will use pre-computed digit of pi from the website of Professor Yasumasa
89 will use pre-computed digit of pi from the website of Professor Yasumasa
90 Kanada at the University of Tokyo (http://www.super-computing.org). These
90 Kanada at the University of Tokyo (http://www.super-computing.org). These
91 digits come in a set of text files (ftp://pi.super-computing.org/.2/pi200m/)
91 digits come in a set of text files (ftp://pi.super-computing.org/.2/pi200m/)
92 that each have 10 million digits of pi.
92 that each have 10 million digits of pi.
93
93
94 For the parallel calculation, we have copied these files to the local hard
94 For the parallel calculation, we have copied these files to the local hard
95 drives of the compute nodes. A total of 15 of these files will be used, for a
95 drives of the compute nodes. A total of 15 of these files will be used, for a
96 total of 150 million digits of pi. To make things a little more interesting we
96 total of 150 million digits of pi. To make things a little more interesting we
97 will calculate the frequencies of all 2 digits sequences (00-99) and then plot
97 will calculate the frequencies of all 2 digits sequences (00-99) and then plot
98 the result using a 2D matrix in Matplotlib.
98 the result using a 2D matrix in Matplotlib.
99
99
100 The overall idea of the calculation is simple: each IPython engine will
100 The overall idea of the calculation is simple: each IPython engine will
101 compute the two digit counts for the digits in a single file. Then in a final
101 compute the two digit counts for the digits in a single file. Then in a final
102 step the counts from each engine will be added up. To perform this
102 step the counts from each engine will be added up. To perform this
103 calculation, we will need two top-level functions from :file:`pidigits.py`:
103 calculation, we will need two top-level functions from :file:`pidigits.py`:
104
104
105 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/parallel/pi/pidigits.py
105 .. literalinclude:: ../../../examples/Parallel Computing/pi/pidigits.py
106 :language: python
106 :language: python
107 :lines: 47-62
107 :lines: 47-62
108
108
109 We will also use the :func:`plot_two_digit_freqs` function to plot the
109 We will also use the :func:`plot_two_digit_freqs` function to plot the
110 results. The code to run this calculation in parallel is contained in
110 results. The code to run this calculation in parallel is contained in
111 :file:`examples/parallel/parallelpi.py`. This code can be run in parallel
111 :file:`examples/parallel/parallelpi.py`. This code can be run in parallel
112 using IPython by following these steps:
112 using IPython by following these steps:
113
113
114 1. Use :command:`ipcluster` to start 15 engines. We used 16 cores of an SGE linux
114 1. Use :command:`ipcluster` to start 15 engines. We used 16 cores of an SGE linux
115 cluster (1 controller + 15 engines).
115 cluster (1 controller + 15 engines).
116 2. With the file :file:`parallelpi.py` in your current working directory, open
116 2. With the file :file:`parallelpi.py` in your current working directory, open
117 up IPython, enable matplotlib, and type ``run parallelpi.py``. This will download
117 up IPython, enable matplotlib, and type ``run parallelpi.py``. This will download
118 the pi files via ftp the first time you run it, if they are not
118 the pi files via ftp the first time you run it, if they are not
119 present in the Engines' working directory.
119 present in the Engines' working directory.
120
120
121 When run on our 16 cores, we observe a speedup of 14.2x. This is slightly
121 When run on our 16 cores, we observe a speedup of 14.2x. This is slightly
122 less than linear scaling (16x) because the controller is also running on one of
122 less than linear scaling (16x) because the controller is also running on one of
123 the cores.
123 the cores.
124
124
125 To emphasize the interactive nature of IPython, we now show how the
125 To emphasize the interactive nature of IPython, we now show how the
126 calculation can also be run by simply typing the commands from
126 calculation can also be run by simply typing the commands from
127 :file:`parallelpi.py` interactively into IPython:
127 :file:`parallelpi.py` interactively into IPython:
128
128
129 .. sourcecode:: ipython
129 .. sourcecode:: ipython
130
130
131 In [1]: from IPython.parallel import Client
131 In [1]: from IPython.parallel import Client
132
132
133 # The Client allows us to use the engines interactively.
133 # The Client allows us to use the engines interactively.
134 # We simply pass Client the name of the cluster profile we
134 # We simply pass Client the name of the cluster profile we
135 # are using.
135 # are using.
136 In [2]: c = Client(profile='mycluster')
136 In [2]: c = Client(profile='mycluster')
137 In [3]: v = c[:]
137 In [3]: v = c[:]
138
138
139 In [3]: c.ids
139 In [3]: c.ids
140 Out[3]: [0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14]
140 Out[3]: [0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14]
141
141
142 In [4]: run pidigits.py
142 In [4]: run pidigits.py
143
143
144 In [5]: filestring = 'pi200m.ascii.%(i)02dof20'
144 In [5]: filestring = 'pi200m.ascii.%(i)02dof20'
145
145
146 # Create the list of files to process.
146 # Create the list of files to process.
147 In [6]: files = [filestring % {'i':i} for i in range(1,16)]
147 In [6]: files = [filestring % {'i':i} for i in range(1,16)]
148
148
149 In [7]: files
149 In [7]: files
150 Out[7]:
150 Out[7]:
151 ['pi200m.ascii.01of20',
151 ['pi200m.ascii.01of20',
152 'pi200m.ascii.02of20',
152 'pi200m.ascii.02of20',
153 'pi200m.ascii.03of20',
153 'pi200m.ascii.03of20',
154 'pi200m.ascii.04of20',
154 'pi200m.ascii.04of20',
155 'pi200m.ascii.05of20',
155 'pi200m.ascii.05of20',
156 'pi200m.ascii.06of20',
156 'pi200m.ascii.06of20',
157 'pi200m.ascii.07of20',
157 'pi200m.ascii.07of20',
158 'pi200m.ascii.08of20',
158 'pi200m.ascii.08of20',
159 'pi200m.ascii.09of20',
159 'pi200m.ascii.09of20',
160 'pi200m.ascii.10of20',
160 'pi200m.ascii.10of20',
161 'pi200m.ascii.11of20',
161 'pi200m.ascii.11of20',
162 'pi200m.ascii.12of20',
162 'pi200m.ascii.12of20',
163 'pi200m.ascii.13of20',
163 'pi200m.ascii.13of20',
164 'pi200m.ascii.14of20',
164 'pi200m.ascii.14of20',
165 'pi200m.ascii.15of20']
165 'pi200m.ascii.15of20']
166
166
167 # download the data files if they don't already exist:
167 # download the data files if they don't already exist:
168 In [8]: v.map(fetch_pi_file, files)
168 In [8]: v.map(fetch_pi_file, files)
169
169
170 # This is the parallel calculation using the Client.map method
170 # This is the parallel calculation using the Client.map method
171 # which applies compute_two_digit_freqs to each file in files in parallel.
171 # which applies compute_two_digit_freqs to each file in files in parallel.
172 In [9]: freqs_all = v.map(compute_two_digit_freqs, files)
172 In [9]: freqs_all = v.map(compute_two_digit_freqs, files)
173
173
174 # Add up the frequencies from each engine.
174 # Add up the frequencies from each engine.
175 In [10]: freqs = reduce_freqs(freqs_all)
175 In [10]: freqs = reduce_freqs(freqs_all)
176
176
177 In [11]: plot_two_digit_freqs(freqs)
177 In [11]: plot_two_digit_freqs(freqs)
178 Out[11]: <matplotlib.image.AxesImage object at 0x18beb110>
178 Out[11]: <matplotlib.image.AxesImage object at 0x18beb110>
179
179
180 In [12]: plt.title('2 digit counts of 150m digits of pi')
180 In [12]: plt.title('2 digit counts of 150m digits of pi')
181 Out[12]: <matplotlib.text.Text object at 0x18d1f9b0>
181 Out[12]: <matplotlib.text.Text object at 0x18d1f9b0>
182
182
183 The resulting plot generated by Matplotlib is shown below. The colors indicate
183 The resulting plot generated by Matplotlib is shown below. The colors indicate
184 which two digit sequences are more (red) or less (blue) likely to occur in the
184 which two digit sequences are more (red) or less (blue) likely to occur in the
185 first 150 million digits of pi. We clearly see that the sequence "41" is
185 first 150 million digits of pi. We clearly see that the sequence "41" is
186 most likely and that "06" and "07" are least likely. Further analysis would
186 most likely and that "06" and "07" are least likely. Further analysis would
187 show that the relative size of the statistical fluctuations have decreased
187 show that the relative size of the statistical fluctuations have decreased
188 compared to the 10,000 digit calculation.
188 compared to the 10,000 digit calculation.
189
189
190 .. image:: figs/two_digit_counts.*
190 .. image:: figs/two_digit_counts.*
191
191
192 Conclusion
192 Conclusion
193 ==========
193 ==========
194
194
195 To conclude these examples, we summarize the key features of IPython's
195 To conclude these examples, we summarize the key features of IPython's
196 parallel architecture that have been demonstrated:
196 parallel architecture that have been demonstrated:
197
197
198 * Serial code can be parallelized often with only a few extra lines of code.
198 * Serial code can be parallelized often with only a few extra lines of code.
199 We have used the :class:`DirectView` and :class:`LoadBalancedView` classes
199 We have used the :class:`DirectView` and :class:`LoadBalancedView` classes
200 for this purpose.
200 for this purpose.
201 * The resulting parallel code can be run without ever leaving the IPython's
201 * The resulting parallel code can be run without ever leaving the IPython's
202 interactive shell.
202 interactive shell.
203 * Any data computed in parallel can be explored interactively through
203 * Any data computed in parallel can be explored interactively through
204 visualization or further numerical calculations.
204 visualization or further numerical calculations.
205 * We have run these examples on a cluster running RHEL 5 and Sun GridEngine.
205 * We have run these examples on a cluster running RHEL 5 and Sun GridEngine.
206 IPython's built in support for SGE (and other batch systems) makes it easy
206 IPython's built in support for SGE (and other batch systems) makes it easy
207 to get started with IPython's parallel capabilities.
207 to get started with IPython's parallel capabilities.
208
208
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