I am trying to get back to arduino after not using it for a few years. I downloaded a couple of new libraries, PID and Onewire. So I am wondering if there is any general way to find what the input and output variables are for any library function other than using a word processor to read the .h and .c files, or hunting on the web for some documentation. I can't seem to see any of this within a sketch.
Libraries often come with example sketches. Often those will teach you how to use the library.
Libraries sometimes come with example sketches. Sometimes those will teach you how to use the library.
Often looking at the .h and .cpp files is the only way to find more about how they work. Sometimes library writers even add comments to them and/or use sensible names for the library variables.
UKHeliBob:
Often looking at the .h and .cpp files is the only way to find more about how they work.
That's what I would have recommended if the OP had not explicitly said "other than using a word processor to read the .h and .c files"
johnwasser:
That's what I would have recommended if the OP had not explicitly said "other than using a word processor to read the .h and .c files"
I noted what he said and your very reasonable answer but I chose my words carefully when I said
Often looking at the .h and .cpp files is the only way to find more about how they work.
Mind you, using a word processor to look at them could cause troubles of its own should you choose to save them. A text editor would be better as it is less likely to mangle the files.