A simple variable that is declared to be OWN retains its value when the program exits the block in which the variable is declared. That value is again available when the program re-enters the block in which the variable is declared.

When a double integer, simple variable is allocated, it is initialized to a double-precision 0 (zero), which is two 48-bit words with all bits equal to zero. Refer to Data Representation for additional information on the internal structure of a double integer operand.

The PRIVATE and PUBLIC specifiers can only be used for simple variables that are declared within a structure block or connection block. The PRIVATE specifier limits visibility of the simple variable to the scope of the structure block or the connection block. A PRIVATE simple variable cannot be accessed using a structure or connection block qualifier. The PUBLIC specifier allows the simple variable to be accessed using a structure or connection block qualifier. If neither PRIVATE nor PUBLIC is specified, the default value is PUBLIC and access to the simple variable using a structure or connection block qualifier is allowed.