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The DATA Step Graphics Interface

Overview

The DATA Step Graphics Interface (DSGI) enables you to create graphics output within the DATA step or from within a Screen Control Language ( SCL) application. Through DSGI, you can call the graphics routines used by SAS/GRAPH software to generate a custom graph, or to add features to an existing graph. You can use DSGI to write a custom graphics application in conjunction with all the power of the programming statements accessible by the DATA step.

DSGI provides many of the same features as the Annotate facility, but it also has many advantages over the Annotate facility.

Consider using the Annotate facility for enhancing procedure output. and using DSGI for creating custom graphics without using a graphics procedure.

DSGI is based on the Graphics Kernel System (GKS) standard, although it does not follow a strict interpretation, nor is it implemented on a particular level of GKS. GKS was used to provide a recognizable interface to the user. Because of its modularity, the standard allows for enhancements to DSGI without the side effect of converting programs between versions of SAS/GRAPH software.

The concepts used to create graphics output with DSGI are explained. An overview of the functions and routines used in DSGI are provided. For complete details of each function and routine, see DATA Step Graphics Interface Dictionary.


DSGI Funtions

Pie Chart Created with DSGI Functions

[Exploded Pie]


DSGI Statements

Text Slide Created with DSGI Statements

[Report Jan.1999- Jun1999 Production Informations Widgets]


Syntax

DSGI uses GASK routines and functions to draw graphics elements. These statements have the following syntax:

CALL GASK(operator, arguments);
return-code-variable=function-name (operator, arguments);

where

arguments

are the additional required variables or values for the routine or function.

return-code-variable

is an arbitrary name and can be any numeric variable name. It holds the return code upon execution of the function.

function-name

is the DSGI command you want to execute and must be one of the following: GDRAW, GINIT, GPRINT, GRAPH, GSET, or GTERM.

operator

is a character string that names the function you either want to submit or for which you want the current settings. When used with functions, operator can take different values depending on function-name.


Requirements

When using DSGI statements, the following formats for arguments must be used:

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