SAS/GRAPH Software: Reference

Exporting SAS/GRAPH Output Using Modified Device Entries

If you frequently send graphics output to the same file or device, you may want to create a custom device entry that automatically sends your output to that destination. This simplifies the process by eliminating several graphics options from the GOPTIONS statement and allowing you to create the GSF by simply specifying the custom device entry with the DEVICE= graphics option.

To modify a device entry, use the GDEVICE procedure using either code-based statements or the GDEVICE windows. In either case, copy the original entry from the SASHELP.DEVICES catalog to your personal catalog (typically, GDEVICE0.DEVICES). Then simply change the device parameters to create an entry that produces graphics stream files by default.

Often these device parameters correspond to the graphics options in your program. For example, if your program uses the fileref GRAFOUT, you can enter a value of Grafout in the Gsfname: field in the Host File Options window.

See The GDEVICE Procedure for more information on modifying device entries. Refer to the Device Help for SAS/GRAPH in the SAS Help facility for lists of available drivers and for specific information on modifying device entries in your operating environment.

The Metagraphics Driver Facility

You can use the SAS/GRAPH Metagraphics facility to write your own device drivers to create files in other formats for use by other graphics software. The Metagraphics driver facility can be used to develop driver support for virtually any device you choose. It is device-intelligent and can support most hardware features. A user-written program is required to translate the Metagraphics metafile into the appropriate graphics language recognized by the hardware product.

For assistance in creating a Metagraphics driver, contact Technical Support.

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