The programming manual provides instructions for setting up and programming the Altivar 71 variable speed drive. It includes descriptions of the graphic display terminal, navigating menus and parameters, factory configuration settings, application functions, and safety recommendations for setup. Programming involves configuring menus such as [SIMPLY START], [MOTOR CONTROL], [INPUTS/OUTPUTS], [COMMAND], and [APPLICATION FUNCT.] to customize the drive for the user's application.