Utilities
=========

Modify Element sub-palette
Re-solve Constraints tool
Dimension-driven Design
MDL Applications


Dimension-driven Design
-----------------------

Dimension-driven design tools are used to specify constraints and 
constructions that determine the size, extent or shape of associated 
elements.

Given sufficient information about how elements relate to one another, the 
location, size, extent and/or shape of the elements in a design can be 
recalculated to fit new constraints. In this way, constraints can "drive" 
the layout of a design.

All dimension-driven design tools are in the Dimension-driven Design 
palette.

Dimension-driven cells are placed with the Place Dimension-driven Cell 
dialog box.

   Concepts and Terminology
   Equation Syntax
   Dimension-driven Design palette
   Model sub-palette
   Constraint sub-palette
   Attach Element sub-palette


Concepts and Terminology
------------------------

This section has definitions of basic terminology and other introductory 
information about dimension-driven design.

   Important terminology
   Constraints
   Diagnosing an ambiguous dimension-driven design


Important terminology
---------------------

The following terms are important for understanding dimension-driven design
   Constraint -- a piece of information that limits or controls a 
construction. See also Constraints.
   Construction -- an element (point, infinite line, circle, ellipse, or 
B-spline curve) that lets constraints locate, delimit or arrange other 
elements. For example, a construction line can be the center line of a 
symmetric design. 
   Dimension-driven design -- a design that is defined in terms of 
constraints and constructions. Constraints and constructions represent a 
dimension-driven design's underlying structure.
   Post-check -- TBD.
   Well-constrained -- a set of constructions that is completely defined by 
constraints or is constant and has no redundant constraints. There is 
generally more than one feasible solution for a set of well-constrained 
constructions, but the choice is usually clear.
   Under-constrained -- a set of constructions that is not completely 
defined by constraints and is not constant. An under-constrained 
construction has many possible "solutions" and is unacceptably ambiguous.
   Redundant -- A constraint that is applied to a set of constructions that 
are already well-constrained. A redundant constraint may or may not be 
inconsistent with other constraints, but, in either case, it adds no useful 
information. 
   Degrees of freedom -- Number that sums up a dimension-driven design's 
ambiguity.
   Solve -- To construct the design from a given set of constraints and 
show what remains to be defined.
   Dimension-driven cell -- A dimension-driven design that is stored as a 
cell in a cell library and serves as a template or model that defines a 
family of cells that can be derived -- solved for a specified set of 
dimension values.
   Derived cell -- A cell in a design that is derived from a 
dimension-driven cell.
   
Note:
Constructions are elements with the class construction and special 
symbology (see Diagnosing an ambiguous dimension-driven design).



Constraints
-----------

Constraints say what characteristics a dimension-driven design must have, 
but not necessarily how to arrive at a design with those characteristics. 
How to compute geometry in the light of constraints is the task of 
"solving."

Most constraint relationships apply to the design's essential layout or 
general structure. The design's details are located and shaped by its 
structure. For example, if a dimension-driven design is generally 
symmetrical, it has constraints that relate elements to a center line in 
some way.

Constaints are applied using the tools in the Constraint sub-palette.

   Types of constraints
   Effect of applying constraints


Types of constraints
--------------------

The following types of constraints can be created
*  Location -- A constraint that fixes the location of a point in the 
design plane.
*  Geometric -- A constraint that controls the position or orientation of 
two or more elements relative to each other.
*  Dimensional -- A constraint that is a controlled by a dimension.
*  Algebraic -- An equation that expresses a relationship among variables.
   


Effect of applying constraints
------------------------------

When a constraint is added, modified, or deleted, a dimension-driven design 
is solved -- an attempt is made to reconstruct the design so that the new 
or modified constraint, as well as all existing constraints, is satisfied. 
*  If a solution is found, the affected elements are updated and 
redisplayed. The solution may affect elements that are not obviously or 
locally related to the new constraint. 
*  If no solution is possible, the message "Not Solved" and graphical cues 
as to where the trouble is are displayed. The design's geometry is not 
updated, but the constraint is accepted anyway.
   
Adding a new constraint removes ambiguity from the design. (Deleting a 
constraint has the opposite effect.)

A constraint can apply only to a construction. An element is converted to 
the equivalent construction when a constraint is applied to it.

Note:
The names of some constraints may appear to suggest a one-way dependency of 
one element upon another. In fact, all constraints establish two-way 
relationships between elements.

Note:
In this version, most location and geometric constraints are assigned the 
class Construction. You can define the level and class of dimensions, 
location constraints, and equations. In the future, you will be able to 
specify the level, symbology, and class of all constraints and 
constructions.



Diagnosing an ambiguous dimension-driven design
-----------------------------------------------

The symbology of constrained elements and of the constraint and dimension 
elements themselves changes to alert you to ambiguities and inconsistencies 
in the design.
*  If a construction or variable is completely defined by constraints or is 
constant, it is well-constrained and is displayed in solid white. 
*  If a construction or variable is not completely defined by constraints, 
it is is under-constrained and is displayed dashed in yellow. 
*  If a constraint is applied to a set of constuctions that are already 
well-constrained, it is redundant and is displayed dashed in red. 
   
Note:
In the future, you will be able to specify the symbology of all constraints 
and constructions.

   How valid constraints are displayed
   Degrees of freedom
   Determining if a design is well- or under-constrained


How valid constraints are displayed
-----------------------------------

Valid constraints are displayed as follows

Constraint      Displayed 
                In

Dimensions      solid white

Other geometric solid blue
constraints

Equations       white


Note:
In the future, you will be able to specify the symbology of all 
constraints.



Degrees of freedom
------------------

The remaining ambiguity in a design is summed up by a number called 
"degrees of freedom." Each new construction adds degrees of freedom as 
follows

Construction Degrees of 
             Freedom  Added

Point        2

Line         2

Circle       3

Ellipse      5



Each valid constraint removes degrees of freedom. 



Determining if a design is well- or under-constrained
-----------------------------------------------------

A well-constrained design has zero degrees of freedom and no redundant 
constraints. All constructions are well-constarined (displayed in white). 

If the degrees of freedom is not zero, then parts of the design are 
under-constrained (displayed in yellow).

When a constraint is added, the remaining degrees of freedom are displayed, 
followed by the message "Over-constrained" if there are any redundant 
constraints.



Equation Syntax
---------------

An equation expresses an algebraic relationship among variables. It is not 
just an assigment or single-valued formula. 

An equation consists of an algebraic expression, optionally followed by an 
equals "=" sign and another algebraic expression. For example, "a + b = 
c^2" is an equation relating a, b, and c.

If just one expression is given, "= 0" is assumed. For example, the 
equations "a + b = 2" and "a + b - 2" mean the same thing.

   Algebraic expression
   White space and comments
   Arithmetic operators
   Built-in Numerical Constants
   Numbers
   Variable names


Algebraic expression
--------------------

An algebraic expression can contain variable identifiers, numbers, 
arithmetic and inequality operators, and built-in functions and constants, 
according to the usual rules of algebra.

As in ordinary math notation, the multiplcation operator '*' is assumed 
when none is given. For example, the expression "2 a" is taken to mean "2 * 
a."

Formally, the grammar of an algebraic expression is as follows:

Clause  Grammar

exp2:   exp1 [ [op2]  exp2 ]*

exp1:   [op1]* exp0

exp0:   '(' exp ')' | variable | number | const 

op2:    binary arithmetic or inequality operator  
        (default op2: '*')

op1:    unary operator or built-in

const:  numerical constant reserved word

number: integer, floating point, exponential, or 
        mu:su:pu notation

variableuser-defined variable identifier 



[ ... ] denotes an optional clause  * means zero or more clauses  | 
separates alternatives  quotes '...' denote a literal character.)



White space and comments
------------------------

White space and comments can appear anywhere in an expression and are 
ignored. 

A comment is a sequence of characters enclosed in brackets or braces, as 
follows: 
   '[' ... ']' | '{' ... '}' | '/*' ... '*/'


Arithmetic operators
--------------------

The following arithmetic operators are available

Operator  Operation Performed

-         arithmetic negation

cos       cosine

sin       sine

tan       tangent

acos      arccosine

asin      arcsine

atan      arctangent

sqrt      square root

+         addition

-         subtraction

*         multiplication

/         division (floating point)

%         modulo

^         exponent (e.g., a ^ 2  squares the value of 
          a)

=         equal to

<         less than

<=        less than or equal to

>         greater than

>=        greater than or equal to

!         not equal to

&&        logical "and"

||        logical "or"





Built-in Numerical Constants
----------------------------




Constant   Means:

pi         pi

The following built-in numerical constant is available:



Numbers
-------

A number can be expressed in integer, floating point or exponential 
notation, followed by an optional units keyword, or in working units 
notation (mu

Keyword   Units Denoted

deg       degrees (for angles)





Variable names
--------------

A variable name can have up to 32 characters, beginning with a letter or 
underscore, followed by letters, numbers or underscores, with no embedded 
blanks. Variable names are case-sensitive.

A variable name cannot be the same as a built-in function or constant, but 
may contain a reserved word as part of its name. For example, if "sin" is a 
built-in function, then "sin" is not a valid variable name, but "sin_of_x" 
is valid. Reserved names are not case sensitive, so "Sin" is not a valid 
variable name.

A variable's name must be unique within the cell or sub-design in which it 
is used.



Dimension-driven Design palette
-------------------------------

The tools in the sub-palettes that can be torn off the Dimension-driven 
Design (DD Design) palette let you create and manipulate a dimension-driven 
design

>> To open the Dimension-driven design palette:

1. Key in MDL LOAD DDDESIGN.
   
To:                      Use the tools in 
                         the:

Modify or update a       Model sub-palette
dimension-driven design.

Apply a constraint to a  Constraint sub-palette
construction.

Construct an arc, line stAttach Element sub-palette
or shape that is controlled by 
underlying constructions.

Attach an element's locatAttach Element sub-palette
rotation to a construction.





Model sub-palette
-----------------

The tools in the Model sub-palette, when used in comjunction with the tools 
the Constraint sub-palette, let you create a dimension-driven design 
incrementally. 

To:                      Select in the Model 
                         sub-palette:

Graphically manipulate a Modify and Re-solve Constraints
dimension-driven design.

Re-establish dimensions aRe-solve Constraints
other constraints in a 
dimension-driven design that 
has been modified with 
conventional element 
modification tools.

Get information about a  Describe Construction or Constraint
construction or constraint.



Key-in: DIALOG PALETTE MODEL

   Modify and Re-solve Constraints
   Re-solve Constraints
   Describe Construction or Constraint


Modify and Re-solve Constraints
-------------------------------

Used to graphically manipulate a dimension-driven design. The geometry of a 
construction or the value of a constraint or variable changes as you move 
the pointer.

This can be used to help understand how to resolve the ambiguity (degrees 
of freedom) in a design. You can modify the size, shape or location of a 
construction; the design's constraints determine how it can change and how 
the change is transmitted to other attached elements.

>> To modify a dimension-driven design:

1. Select the Modify and Re-solve Constraints tool.
2. Identify an element in the dimension-driven design. 
   If the message "Element is invariant," is displayed, the identified 
element cannot be modified with this tool.
   As you move the pointer, the design is solved and dynamically updated. 
3. Accept the modification.
   or
   Reset to restore the design as it was.
   The message "Not Solved" is displayed if the design cannot be modified 
as requested. 
   If a construction is well-constrained or constant, the correct solution 
is no change and the Modify and Re-solve Constraints tool has no effect. 
   If the design is over-constrained, it may not be possible to solve for 
any pointer location and you must change or delete constraints to modify 
it.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN MODIFY MODEL

Note:
Under-constrained designs may change in unexpected ways when large (or even 
small) changes are applied. Solutions of under-constrained designs are 
"path-dependent." You cannot always "back out" easily just by repositioning 
the pointer. (Instead, you must retrace all of your movements.) In some 
cases, an under-constrained design gets farther and farther from its 
initial state as you move the pointer, providing insight about the design's 
constraints.

Hint:
The Modify and Re-solve Constraints tool shows how constraints hold the 
design together and how modifying a constraint affects the rest of the 
design. For example, if you move one end of a distance dimension in 
relation to the other end, the design expands and shrinks to fit the 
changing dimension (in accordance with other constraints). In this way, you 
can check that the constraints are as you intended.



Re-solve Constraints
--------------------

Used to re-establish required dimensions and other constraints in a 
dimension-driven design that has been modified using MicroStation's 
conventional element manipulation tools. Use Re-solve Constraints if you
*  Modify a construction using the Modify Element tool, Element Selection 
tool, or a fence manipulation tool and want to reconstruct the design, 
based on these modifications and also satisfying all constraints.
*  Delete constructions or constraints and want to drop any constructions 
or elements that are dependent on the deleted elements and then re-analyze 
the design's degrees of freedom.
*  Copy constructions.
   
>> To re-solve constraints:

1. Select the Re-solve Constraints tool.
2. Identify an element in the dimension-driven design.
   The design is reconstructed. The symbology of constructions and 
constraints may be changed. A diagnostic message is displayed. If the 
design cannot be reconstructed, "Not Solved" is displayed.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN UPDATE MODEL

Note:
It may not be possible to reconstruct the dimension-driven design to 
satisfy constraints. For example, constructions might have been modified to 
such an extent that the solver cannot "pull them back together." In this 
case, you can choose Undo (action) from the Edit menu to negate the 
changes.

Note:
All constraint placement tools activate Re-solve Constraints automatically. 
Constraints can be applied to a modified design without using the Re-solve 
Constraints tool.



Describe Construction or Constraint
-----------------------------------

Used to display the name of a construction or constraint and the names of 
the objects to which it is attached.

When you        This is displayed:
identify:

A constraint    The constraint's name and the 
                constructions to which it applies.

A construction  TBD



>> To get information about an object in a dimension-driven design:

1. Select the Describe Construction or Constraint tool.
2. Identify an element.
3. Accept the element.
   The object's number is displayed at this point. The objects's 
description is displayed in the Command Window.
   
Key-in: MODEL INFO

Note:
Each object in a model is assigned a unique name, based on its type (for 
example, "Line1" for a line, "Tangent2" for a Tangent constraint, and so 
on). Names are not unique across models. The assigned numbers distinguish 
one object from another and have no other significance.



Constraint sub-palette
----------------------

The Constraints sub-palette has tools that let you apply constraints to 
constructions.

To:                      Select in the 
                         Constraint 
                         sub-palette:

Constrain two lines (or tConstrain Two Lines to be Perpendicular
primary axes of two ellipses) 
to be at a right angle (90d) to 
one another.

Constrain two lines (or tConstrain Two Lines to be Parallel
primary axes of two ellipses) 
to the same rotation angle.

Constrain two constructioConstrain Two Constructions to be Tangent
be tangent.

Assign an equation to a  Assign Equation
dimension-driven design.

Constrain a point (or theConstrain Point on Construction
center of a circle or an 
ellipse) to lie on a 
construction.

Constrain a point to the Constrain Point at Intersection
intersection of two 
constructions.

Constrain two points to bConstrain Two Points to be Coincident
coincident, two circles to the 
same center, or a point to the 
center of a circle.

Fix the location of a poiFix Point at Location
the center of a circle or 
ellipse) in the design.

Convert an associative   Convert Dimension to Constraint
dimension into a dimensional 
constraint.

Assign a variable to a   Assign Variable to Dimensional Constraint
dimensional constraint.

To make a variable a consMake Construction or Parameter Invariant
or make a construction 
invariant (not recalculated 
when solving).

Fix a line's orientation Fix Angle of Line or Ellipse
ellipse's rotation angle.

Define an equation that iCreate Post-check Equation
applied as a post-check.



Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN DIALOG PALETTE CONSTRAINTS

   Constrain Two Lines to be Perpendicular
   Constrain Two Lines to be Parallel
   Constrain Two Constructions to be Tangent
   Assign Equation
   Constrain Point on Construction
   Constrain Point at Intersection
   Constrain Two Points to be Coincident
   Fix Point at Location
   Convert Dimension to Constraint
   Assign Variable to Dimensional Constraint
   Make Construction or Parameter Invariant
   Fix Angle of Line or Ellipse
   Create Post-check Equation


Constrain Two Lines to be Perpendicular
---------------------------------------

Used to constrain two lines (or the primary axes of two ellipses) to be at 
a right angle (90d) to one another.

>> To apply a perpendicular constraint:

1. Select the Constrain Two Lines to be Perpendicular tool.
2. Identify the two lines, ellipses, or a line and an ellipse.
   The perpendicular constraint is displayed. An attempt is made to solve 
and remove one degree of freedom.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN PERPENDICULAR



Constrain Two Lines to be Parallel
----------------------------------

Used to constrain two lines (or the primary axes of two ellipses) to the 
same rotation angle.

>> To apply a parallel constraint:

1. Select the Constrain Two Lines to be Parallel tool.
2. Identify the two lines, ellipses, or a line and an ellipse.
   The parallel constraint is displayed. An attempt is made to solve and 
remove one degree of freedom.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN PARALLEL



Constrain Two Constructions to be Tangent
-----------------------------------------

Used to constrain two constructions (two circles, two ellipses, or a circle 
or ellipse and a line) to be tangent.

>> To apply a tangent constraint:

1. Select the Constrain Two Constructions to be Tangent tool.
2. Identify one construction.
3. Identify the other construction.
   The tangent constraint is displayed. An attempt is made to solve and 
remove one degree of freedom.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN TANGENT



Assign Equation
---------------

Used to assign an algebraic constraint -- an equation that expresses a 
constraint relationship between variables, numerical constants and built-in 
functions and constants -- to a dimension-driven design. 

An equation is stored in a text element and is created using the Place Text 
tool and can be edited using the Edit Text tool.

Equation Syntax (*Xref) follows the rules of algebra. Built-in functions 
and pre-defined constants can be used.

>> To assign an equation to a dimension-driven design:

1. Select the Assign Equation tool.
2. Identify the text element that contains the equation.
3. Identify one of the equation's variables or any element in the 
dimension-driven design to which the equation is being assigned.
   An attempt is made to solve and one degree of freedom is removed.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN EQUATION



Constrain Point on Construction
-------------------------------

Used to constrain a point (or the center of a circle or an ellipse) to lie 
on a construction that is not a point, or, equivalently, the construction 
to pass through a point.

>> To apply a point-on constraint:

1. Select the Constrain Point on Construction tool.
2. Identify the construction.
3. Identify the point.
   or 
   Reset to have MicroStation create the point.
   The constraint is displayed next to the point. An attempt is made to 
solve and remove one degree of freedom.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN POINTON



Constrain Point at Intersection
-------------------------------

Used to constrain a point to lie at the intersection of two constructions, 
or, equivalently, to force two constructions to pass through a point.

The two constructions can be any kind of construction, except points. The 
intersection can be a construction point or the center of a circle or an 
ellipse.

>> To constrain a point to the intersection of two constructions:

1. Select the Constrain Point at Intersection tool.
2. Identify the first construction.
3. Identify the construction with which it is to intersect.
4. Identify the point of intersection.
   or
   Reset to create the point of intersection at the intersection of of the 
two constructions.
   The intersection constraint is created next to the point of 
intersection. An attempt is made to solve and remove two degrees of 
freedom.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN INTERSECTION



Constrain Two Points to be Coincident
-------------------------------------

Used to constrain one of the following
*  Two points to the same location (to be coincident).
*  Two circles to be concentric (have the same center).
*  A point to lie at the center of a circle.
   
>> To constrain two points to be coincident, two circles to be concentric, 
or a point to a circle's center:

1. Select the Constrain Two Points to be Coincident tool.
2. Identify the two points, circles or ellipses, or any combination 
thereof.
   The concentric constraint is displayed next to the point. An attempt is 
made to solve and remove two degrees of freedom.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN CONCENTRIC



Fix Point at Location
---------------------

Used to fix the location of a point (or the center of a circle or ellipse) 
in the design.

>> To constrain a point to a location:

1. Select the Fix Point at Location tool.
2. Identify the point, circle, or ellipse. 
   The constraint is displayed next to the point. Two degrees of freedom 
are removed.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN LOCATION



Convert Dimension to Constraint
-------------------------------

Used to convert an associative dimension into a dimensional constraint 
(except as noted). These types of dimensions can be converted.

Description:           Dimensioning Tool 
                       Used:

Linear distance betweenDimension Size with Arrows, 
points or circles[a]   Dimension Size With 
                       Strokes, or Dimension Size 
                       (Custom).

Linear distance betweenTBD
lines[b]

Radius or diameter applSee 
to circle or ellipse   Radial Dimensions sub-palette.

Second radius or diametSee 
applied to ellipse.    Radial Dimensions sub-palette.

Angle between two linesDimension Angle Between Lines
the axes of two ellipses)

Angle of a line        Label Line[c]

Center mark applied to Place Center Mark[d]
circle or ellipse

[a]The dimension's Alignment can be True or View.
   
[b]The dimension's Alignment can be True.
   
[c]Becomes a geometric (angular) constraint.
   
[d]Becomes a location constraint.
   
>> To create a dimensional constraint:

1. Select the Convert Dimension to Constraint tool.
2. Identify the associative dimension.
   An attempt is made to solve and remove one degree of freedom.
   If the dimension is applied to a constraint or an attached element, the 
constraint is applied to the underlying construction.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN DIMENSION

Note:
You cannot convert the diameter of circle, perpendicular or parallel 
diameter, angle of line from x- or y-axis, ordinate dimensions, or the size 
or location of arc. 

Note:
For more information about constraint types, see Constraints.



Assign Variable to Dimensional Constraint
-----------------------------------------

Used to assign a constant or variable to a dimensional constraint. The 
constant or variable then represents the dimension's value in equations. 

A constant or variable is created using the Place Text tool and can be 
edited using the Edit Text tool. A constant or variable is identified by 
name. See "Variable names" (*Xref) for naming rules.

>> To assign a constant or variable to a dimensional constraint:

1. Select the Assign Constant or Variable to Dimensional Constraint tool.
2. Identify the text element that contains the constant or variable.
3. Identify the dimensional constraint.
   If a variable is assigned, the dimensional constraint's value becomes an 
unknown and one degree of freedom is added.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN VARIABLE

Note:
To make a variable constant, use the Make Construction or Parameter 
Invariant tool or use the Edit Text tool to assign the variable a constant 
value.



Make Construction or Parameter Invariant
----------------------------------------

Used for either of the following
*  To make a variable a constant, fixing the value of the dimension to 
which it is assigned. 
*  To make a construction invariant (not recalculated when solving). An 
invariant construction can be used in constraints. Direct, single-element 
constraints, such as the radial or angle of line dimension constraints or 
the location constraint, are redundant if applied to an invariant 
construction.
   
>> To make a variable a constant or a construction invariant:

1. Select the Make Construction or Parameter Invariant tool.
2. Identify the construction or variable.
   An attempt is made to remove the variable or curve's remaining degrees 
of freedom.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN CONSTANT



Fix Angle of Line or Ellipse
----------------------------

Used to fix a line's orientation or an ellipse's rotation angle.

>> To fix the angle of a line or ellipse:

1. Select the Fix Angle of Line or Ellipse tool.
2. Identify the line or ellipse.
   The fixed angle constraint is applied and the model's symbology and 
degrees of freedom are updated.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN CONSTRAIN ANGLE



Create Post-check Equation
--------------------------

Used to define an algebraic equation that is applied as a post-check to a 
dimension-driven design. The dimension-driven design is considered "Not 
solved" if any post-check is not satisfied. Unlike other constraints, a 
post-check can apply to a constant. A post-check neither affects a model's 
degrees of freedom nor its solvability, and is ideal for the following

To restrict:                   Example

The range and other restrictionA post-check applied to a constant 
what can be input.             that restricts the constant's range of 
                               values.

The range of solutions that canAn inequality that specifies a range 
generated, to rule out possibleof values for a variable. 
undesirable configurations.



>> To add a post-check constraint:

1. Select the Create Post-check Equation tool.
2. Identify the equation and its operands (as you would for an ordinary 
constraint equation). 
3. The post-check is added to the list of post-checks and applied. If the 
dimension-driven design violates the post-check, the message "Not Solved" 
is displayed.
   
Key-in: CONSTRAIN POSTCHECK

Note:
There is no limit to the number of post-checks in a dimension-driven 
design.



Attach Element sub-palette
--------------------------

The Attached Element sub-pallete has tools to construct an arc, line 
string, or shape that is attached to one or more constructions. Only the 
element's size, shape, or location are modified when solving.

To:                    Select in the Attach 
                       Element sub-palette:

Construct an attached aConstruct Attached Arc

Attach an element's    Attach Element to Point, Ellipse, or Constraint
location to a construction 
or a constraint.

Attach an element's    Align Element with Constraint
location and rotation to a 
constraint.

Construct an attached lConstruct Attached Line String or Shape
string or shape.



Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN DIALOG PALETTE ATTACH

   Construct Attached Arc
   Attach Element to Point, Ellipse, or Constraint
   Align Element with Constraint
   Construct Attached Line String or Shape
   Place Dimension-driven Cell dialog box
   Modify Dimensions dialog box


Construct Attached Arc
----------------------

Used to construct an arc that is attached to the identified construction 
circle or ellipse. The arc is defined in the counter-clockwise direction 
from its beginning to its endpoint.

>> To construct an attached arc:

1. Select the Construct Attached Arc tool.
2. Identify the underlying construction circle or ellipse.
3. Enter a data point to define the arc's beginning.
4. Enter a data point to define the arc's endpoint.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN PLACE ARC ATTACHED



Attach Element to Point, Ellipse, or Constraint
-----------------------------------------------

Attaches an element's (text, cell, line string, or shape) location to a 
constraint or construction (point or circle, but not a line). The element 
then moves whenever the construction or constraint is moved. The element's 
rotation is not changed. 

>> To attach the location of an element to a construction or constraint :

1. Select the Convert to Point, Ellipse, or Constraint tool.
2. Identify the element.
3. Identify a construction or constraint to which to attach the element's 
location. 
   The element is attached to the construction or constraint and moved to 
the construction or constraint location.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN ATTACH LOCATION



Align Element with Constraint
-----------------------------

Attaches an element's (text, cell, line string, or shape) location and 
orientation to a constraint. The element then is moved and rotated whenever 
the constraint is moved or rotated. 

>> To attach the location and rotation of an element to a constraint:

1. Select the Align Element with Constraint tool.
2. Identify the element.
3. Identify the constraint. 
   The element is attached to the constraint, moved to the constraint 's 
location, and rotated to the constraint's orientation.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN ATTACH TRANSFORM



Construct Attached Line String or Shape
---------------------------------------

Used to create a line string or shape with its vertices attached to 
construction points, circles, or constraints.

Each vertex is defined by a data point:
*  If the data point is within the Locate Tolerance of a construction point 
or constraint, the vertex is attached to the construction point or 
constraint. 
*  If no construction point or constraint is within the Locate Tolerance, a 
new construction point is created at the pointer's location and the vertex 
is attached to it.
   
The Locate Tolerance (*Xref) is set in the Preferences dialog box.

>> To construct an attached line string or shape:

1. Select the Construct Attached Line String or Shape tool.
2. Enter a data point to define the first vertex.
3. Continue entering data points to define other vertices. 
4. To create a an attached shape, enter the last data point at the starting 
point.
5. Reset to end the line string or shape.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD DDDESIGN PLACE LSTRING ATTACHED



Place Dimension-driven Cell dialog box
--------------------------------------

Lets you place a derived cell -- a cell that is derived from a 
dimension-driven cell. The derived cells' geometry is defined by values 
entered for each dimension or constant and the dimension-driven cell's 
underlying constraints.

Note:
For general information about dimension-driven cells, see Dimension-driven 
cells. For information about how to place them, see To place a 
dimension-driven cell:.

   Edit
   Place


Edit
----

Displays and lets you edit the value of the dimension or constant that is 
selected in the list box.



Place
-----

Click to solve and place the derived cell.

If the cell cannot be derived from the supplied dimension and constant 
values, the cell is not placed, and you are prompted to enter new values.



Modify Dimensions dialog box
----------------------------

Lets you modify the dimensions and constants of a dimension-driven design 
or a derived cell.





















MDL Applications
----------------

These utilities are MDL applications.

To:                      Key in:

View and plot raster fileMDL LOAD BRAS. See 
created with I/RAS B or IB/RAS.
PC.

Evaluate expressions in  MDL LOAD CALCULAT. See 
MicroStation key-ins.    Calculator/Preprocessor.

Create a chart or graph. MDL LOAD CHART. 
                         Charting.

Capture all or part of a MDL LOAD SCRNCAPT (or 
MicroStation screen.     choose Capture Screen 
                         from the User menu's 
                         Utilities sub-menu). See 
                         Screen Capture.



   To load an MDL application:
   B/RAS
   Calculator/Preprocessor
   Charting
   Screen Capture


To load an MDL application
--------------------------

1. From the User menu, choose MDL Applications.
   The MDL settings box opens.
2. In the Available Applications list box, select the application.
3. Click the Load button.
   OR
1. Key in MDL LOAD <application>, where application, by convention, is the 
MDL application file name without the ".ma" extension.
   
Note:
Additional utilities can be loaded from the User menu's Utilities sub-menu. 
See User Menu.



B/RAS
-----

The B/RAS utility ("bras.ma") is used to view and plot raster files created 
with I/RAS B or I/RAS PC. While B/RAS is loaded, an extra menu, the Raster 
menu, is in the Command Window menu bar and an extra button, labeled 
*Xref[Raster], is in the Preview Plot dialog box.

   Raster menu


Raster menu
-----------

Contains items for viewing raster files.

To:                      Choose from the 
                         Raster Menu:

Load and display a rasterOpen...
in a raster layer.

Remove the active layer. Close > Active Layer

Remove all layers.       Close > All Layers

Check the general appearaPreview...
a raster file without loading 
it.

Get information about rasReferences > Info
files that are attached to the 
active design file.

Reload all raster files tReferences > Autoload
are attached to the active 
design file.

Get information about allLayer Information
loaded raster layers.

Set the unit of measuremeSettings > Units > Inches
Command Window readout.

Turn fast loading of rastSettings > Fast Load > On
files off.

Force the completion of lSettings > Fast Load > Synchronize
of a raster file.

Fit the active layer in aViewing > Placement > By Rectangle
rectangular area.

Precisely position the acViewing > Placement > Match
layer relative to the design 
file.

Mirror the active layer aViewing > Orientation > Mirror Vertical
the vertical axis.

Mirror the active layer aViewing > Orientation > Mirror Horizontal
the horizontal axis.

Rotate the active layer bViewing > Orientation > Rotate

Set the scan line orientaViewing > Orientation > 0 Top Left Vertical
for the active layer to Slo 0.

Set the scan line orientaViewing > Orientation > 1 Top Right Vertical
for the active layer to Slo 1.

Set the scan line orientaViewing > Orientation > 2 Lower Left Vertical
for the active layer to Slo 2.

Set the scan line orientaViewing > Orientation > 3 Lower Right Vertical
for the active layer to Slo 3.

Set the scan line orientaViewing > Orientation > 4 Top Left Horizontal
for the active layer to Slo 4.

Set the scan line orientaViewing > Orientation > 5 Top Right Horizontal
for the active layer to Slo 5.

Set the scan line orientaViewing > Orientation > 6 Lower Left Horizontal
for the active layer to Slo 6.

Set the scan line orientaViewing > Orientation > 7 Lower Right Horizontal
for the active layer to Slo 7.

Fit all elements and rastViewing > Fit All
data into a view(s).



   Open...
   Close > Active Layer
   Close > All Layers
   Preview...
   References > Info
   References > Autoload
   Layer Information
   Settings > Units > Inches
   Settings > Units > Centimeters
   Settings > Fast Load > On
   Settings > Fast Load > Off
   Settings > Fast Load > Synchronize
   Viewing > Placement > By Rectangle
   Viewing > Placement > Match
   Viewing > Orientation > Mirror Vertical
   Viewing > Orientation > Mirror Horizontal
   Viewing > Orientation > Rotate
   Viewing > Orientation > 0 Top Left Vertical
   Viewing > Orientation > 1 Top Right Vertical
   Viewing > Orientation > 2 Lower Left Vertical
   Viewing > Orientation > 3 Lower Right Vertical
   Viewing > Orientation > 4 Top Left Horizontal
   Viewing > Orientation > 5 Top Right Horizontal
   Viewing > Orientation > 6 Lower Left Horizontal
   Viewing > Orientation > 7 Lower Right Horizontal
   Viewing > Fit All


Open...
-------

Opens the Open Raster File dialog box, which is used to load and display a 
raster file in the next available layer.

The first raster file is loaded into layer 0; the next into layer 1; the 
next into layer 2, and so on. Up to 64 layers can be loaded. The display 
color for each layer is determined by mapping the layer number into 
MicroStation's internal color table. For example, layer 0 is displayed in 
color 0 (white), layer 1 is displayed in color 1 (blue), and so on.

The layer is positioned according to the transformation stored in the 
raster file header. To control positioning of the layer while loading, 
append the dollar sign character ($) to the end of the filename. This lets 
you fit the layer into a specified rectangular area before the layer is 
displayed (see Viewing > Placement > By Rectangle for instructions).

The files listed for selection in the Files list box in the Open Raster 
File dialog box are in the same directory as MicroStation. The path is 
shown below the Name field.

A different file filter can be specified in the Filter field. Valid 
filename endings are ".rle," ".cit," ".gp4," ".tg4," ".rt4," and ".rst." A 
different directory can be selected in the Directories list box. A pair of 
configuration variables determine the default directory and file filter. 
For information about these configuration variables, see *Xref.

To load a raster file, double-click its name in the Files list box or 
select the name and click OK. You can also key in the filename in the Name 
field. If you decide not to load a raster file, click Cancel button.

Hint:
Use the BRAS LOAD FILE key-in to load the raster file into a different 
layer or display the layer with a different color:

Key-in: BRAS LOAD FILE <filename>[$] [layer_number] [color_number]

If no extension is specified, the default extension of ".rle" is assumed.

Hint:
".rst" is the standard filename ending for multiple-layer raster save sets, 
which can be created with the raster editors I/RAS PC and I/RAS B.



Close > Active Layer
--------------------

Removes the active layer and unloads the raster file that was loaded in 
that layer. The highest remaining layer then becomes the new active layer.



Close > All Layers
------------------

Removes all layers and unloads the raster files that were loaded in those 
layers.



Preview...
----------

Opens the Preview Raster File dialog box, which is used to check the 
general appearance of a raster file without actually loading it.

When a raster file is saved, an overview tile is saved as part of the file. 
If you are not sure whether to load a raster file, the Preview Raster File 
dialog box lets you quickly examine the overview tile in View 1.

After the overview tile is displayed for previewing in View 1, you are 
prompted and given the option of loading the file. If you do not load the 
file, you are prompted and given the option of previewing the next raster 
file in the selected directory. This allows you to view and browse through 
the contents of many files in a quick and easy manner.

If you appended the dollar sign character ($) to the filename and want to 
load the file after having previewed it, you are prompted to fit the layer 
into a rectangle (see Viewing > Placement > By Rectangle for instructions) 
as the file is loaded.

For more information about loading raster files, see Open....

The files listed for selection in the Files list box in the Preview Raster 
File dialog box are in the same directory as MicroStation. The path is 
shown below the Name field.

A different file filter can be specified in the Filter field. Valid 
filename endings are ".rle," ".cit," ".gp4," ".tg4," ".rt4," and ".rst." A 
different directory can be selected in the Directories list box. A pair of 
configuration variables determine the default directory and file filter. 
For information about these configuration variables, see *Xref.



References > Info
-----------------

Opens a window in which information about raster files attached to the 
active design file is displayed.



References > Autoload
---------------------

Loads all raster files that are attached to the active design file. Any 
layers displayed before this item is chosen are automatically removed 
first.

Even if attached raster files are automatically opened when the design file 
is opened, the Autoload item can be useful if you have subsequently loaded 
or unloaded raster files and want to get back to the original display.

Note:
For information about the configuration variable that controls whether 
attached raster files are automatically loaded when the design file is 
opened, see *Xref.



Layer Information
-----------------

Opens a window in which the following information about each loaded raster 
layer is displayed:
*  layer number
*  layer color
*  density
*  width
*  height
*  raster file specification
   
Note:
To display information about only the active layer in the Command Window, 
key in BRAS STATUS. The information is displayed in the following format:

l=<layer> c=<color> <raster_file_spec> d= <density> w= <width> h=<height>



Settings > Units > Inches
-------------------------

Sets inches (and dots per inch) as the unit of measurement used for Command 
Window readout.

Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS UNITS INCHES



Settings > Units > Centimeters
------------------------------

Sets centimeters (and dots per centimeter) as the unit of measurement used 
for Command Window readout.

Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS UNITS CENTIMETERS

Note:
To check the Units setting, key in BRAS UNITS MODE. The setting is 
displayed in the Command Window.



Settings > Fast Load > On
-------------------------

Turns on (the default) fast loading of raster files.

When fast loading is on, the minimum amount of raster data needed to 
construct an accurate screen representation is loaded. The rest of the data 
is loaded as a background process while other functions are available.

Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS LOAD FAST ON

Note:
To check the Fast Load setting, key in BRAS LOAD FAST MODE. The setting is 
displayed in the Command Window.



Settings > Fast Load > Off
--------------------------

Turns off fast loading of raster files.

Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS LOAD FAST OFF



Settings > Fast Load > Synchronize
----------------------------------

Forces raster file loading to proceed until all raster data is read and 
loaded for the active layer.

Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS SYNCHRONIZE



Viewing > Placement > By Rectangle
----------------------------------

Lets you fit the active layer in a specified rectangular area.

After you choose this item, the normal sequence is as follows.

>> To fit the active layer in a rectangular area:

1. Enter a data point to define one corner.
2. Enter a data point to define the other corner.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS PLACE



Viewing > Placement > Match
---------------------------

Lets you precisely position the active layer relative to the design file. 
This view control is useful for precisely positioning particular raster 
features relative to elements in the design file.

When using this view control, you define a reference point in the active 
layer to be anchored to a specified reference point in the design file. The 
layer is sized according to the ratio of the specified distance points. The 
orientation or rotation of the layer is not changed.

After you choose this item, the normal sequence is as follows.

>> To position the active layer relative to the design file:

1. Enter a data point to define a reference point in the active layer.
2. Enter a data point to define the distance from the reference point.
3. Enter a data point to define a reference point in the design file.
4. Enter a data point to define the distance from the reference point.
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS MATCH



Viewing > Orientation > Mirror Vertical
---------------------------------------

Changes the scan line orientation of the active layer and then fits the 
active layer in the lowest numbered open view. The active layer is 
effectively mirrored about the vertical axis. The change is not saved in 
the raster file.

Mirror Vertical is a toggled setting; choose Mirror Vertical a second time 
to return the active layer to its previous orientation.

Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY MIRROR VERTICAL



Viewing > Orientation > Mirror Horizontal
-----------------------------------------

Changes the scan line orientation of the active layer and then fits the 
active layer in the lowest numbered open view. The active layer is 
effectively mirrored about the horizontal axis. The change is not saved in 
the raster file.

Mirror Horizontal is a toggled setting; choose Mirror Horizontal a second 
time to return the active layer to its previous orientation.

Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY MIRROR HORIZONTAL



Viewing > Orientation > Rotate
------------------------------

Changes the scan line orientation of the active layer and then fits the 
active layer in the lowest numbered open view. The active layer is rotated 
90d. The change is not saved in the raster file.

Rotate is a toggled setting; choose Rotate a second time to return to the 
active layer to its previous orientation.

Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY ROTATE

Note:
To check the scan line orientation settings (Mirror Vertical, Mirror 
Horizontal, and Rotate) for the active layer, key in BRAS DISPLAY MODE. The 
settings are displayed in the Command Window.



Viewing > Orientation > 0 Top Left Vertical
-------------------------------------------

Sets the scan line orientation for the active layer to the Intergraph Slo 
(scan line orientation) value of 0: Scan lines are vertical with the raster 
origin in the top left corner. The change is not saved in the raster file. 

The 0 Slo value corresponds to the following settings:
*  Mirror Vertical -- off
*  Mirror Horizontal -- on
*  Rotate -- on
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY SLO 0



Viewing > Orientation > 1 Top Right Vertical
--------------------------------------------

Sets the scan line orientation for the active layer to the Intergraph Slo 
value of 1: Scan lines are vertical with the raster origin in the top right 
corner. The change is not saved in the raster file. 

The 1 Slo value corresponds to the following settings:
*  Mirror Vertical -- on
*  Mirror Horizontal -- on
*  Rotate -- on
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY SLO 1



Viewing > Orientation > 2 Lower Left Vertical
---------------------------------------------

Sets the scan line orientation for the active layer to the Intergraph Slo 
value of 2: Scan lines are vertical with the raster origin in the lower 
left corner. The change is not saved in the raster file. 

The 2 Slo value corresponds to the following settings:
*  Mirror Vertical -- off
*  Mirror Horizontal -- off
*  Rotate -- on
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY SLO 2



Viewing > Orientation > 3 Lower Right Vertical
----------------------------------------------

Sets the scan line orientation for the active layer to the Intergraph Slo 
value of 3: Scan lines are vertical with the raster origin in the lower 
right corner. The change is not saved in the raster file. 

The 3 Slo value corresponds to the following settings:
*  Mirror Vertical -- on
*  Mirror Horizontal -- off
*  Rotate -- on
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY SLO 3



Viewing > Orientation > 4 Top Left Horizontal
---------------------------------------------

Sets the scan line orientation for the active layer to the Intergraph Slo 
value of 4: Scan lines are horizontal with the raster origin in the top 
left corner. The change is not saved in the raster file. 

The 4 Slo value corresponds to the following settings:
*  Mirror Vertical -- off
*  Mirror Horizontal -- on
*  Rotate -- off
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY SLO 4



Viewing > Orientation > 5 Top Right Horizontal
----------------------------------------------

Sets the scan line orientation for the active layer to the Intergraph Slo 
value of 5: Scan lines are horizontal with the raster origin in the top 
right corner. The change is not saved in the raster file. 

The 5 Slo value corresponds to the following settings:
*  Mirror Vertical -- on
*  Mirror Horizontal -- on
*  Rotate -- off
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY SLO 5



Viewing > Orientation > 6 Lower Left Horizontal
-----------------------------------------------

Sets the scan line orientation for the active layer to the Intergraph Slo 
value of 6: Scan lines are horizontal with the raster origin in the lower 
left corner. The change is not saved in the raster file. 

The 6 Slo value corresponds to the following settings:
*  Mirror Vertical -- off
*  Mirror Horizontal -- off
*  Rotate -- off
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY SLO 6



Viewing > Orientation > 7 Lower Right Horizontal
------------------------------------------------

Sets the scan line orientation for the active layer to the Intergraph Slo 
value of 7: Scan lines are horizontal with the raster origin in the lower 
right corner. The change is not saved in the raster file. 

The 7 Slo value corresponds to the following settings:
*  Mirror Vertical -- on
*  Mirror Horizontal -- off
*  Rotate -- off
   
Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS DISPLAY SLO 7

Note:
To check the Intergraph Slo (scan line orientation) value for the active 
layer, key in BRAS DISPLAY MODE. The setting is displayed in the Command 
Window.



Viewing > Fit All
-----------------

Lets you fit all displayable design file elements and raster data (all 
layers) into a view(s). After you choose this item, select the view(s) to 
be fitted.

Key-in: MDL LOAD BRAS BRAS FIT ALL [VIEW <view_number>]



Calculator/Preprocessor
-----------------------

The Calculator/Preprocessor utility ("calculat.ma") is used to evaluate 
expressions in MicroStation key-ins. The syntax used is that of "C."
*  The calculator displays the result of an expression in the Command 
Window. For example, if Calculator/Preprocessor is loaded, when you key in 
CALC 3*sin(90) the result, 3, is displayed in the Command Window.
*  The preprocessor replaces an expression with the result and passes the 
key-in to MicroStation. For example, if Calculator/Preprocessor is loaded, 
when you key in AA={asin(1)} the active angle is set to the result, 90d.
   
Both the calculator and preprocessor handle standard C syntax for 
expressions.

The most significant difference between C expression handling and 
Calculator/Preprocessor expression handling is in integer division. With C 
expression handling, integer division produces an integer result. With 
Calculator/Preprocessor expression handling, integer division produces a 
floating point result. For example, in C the result of 1/4 is 0. With 
Calculator/Preprocessor, the result of 1/4 is 0.25.

The functions cos, acos, sin, asin, atan, atan2, tan, cosh, tanh, sinh, 
exp, ldexp, log, log10, pow, and sqrt are supported These functions are the 
same as the standard C functions except that angles are expressed in 
degrees rather than radians.

Variables and functions can be declared for use with 
Calculator/Preprocessor. See  "Customizing Calculator/Preprocessor" 
(*XRef.) for information.

Thhe interaction between the preprocessor and MicroStation while 
Calculator/Preprocessor is loaded is described here.

The preprocessor examines all MicroStation key-ins and looks for text 
enclosed in designated delimiter characters. The default delimiters are 
braces { }.

When the preprocessor finds a delimited text string, it evaluates the 
string. If the string is a valid C expression, the preprocessor replaces 
the delimiters and the expression with the result and re-examines the 
entire key-in string. The preprocessor loops in this manner until it 
completes a pass without replacing any text. The key-in is then passed to 
MicroStation for processing as a normal key-in.

The preprocessor handles key-in strings resulting from custom menu 
selections or simulated by other applications (MDL applications and user 
commands) in addition to Command Window key-ins. The preprocessor expects 
the result of an expression to be an integer, floating point value, or 
character string.

   To prevent preprocessing while Calculator/Preprocessor is active:
   Preprocessor settings box


To prevent preprocessing while Calculator/Preprocessor is active
----------------------------------------------------------------

1. Use the backward quotation mark (`) as the first character in the key-in 
string or key in PREPROCESSOR OFF. 
   If a backward quotation mark is the first character, MicroStation 
ignores the character when processing the key-in.
   
The calculator and preprocessor each have a format string that controls 
integer result display and another that controls floating point result 
display. These format strings are standard C printf format strings (%w for 
working units format is valid as well).

The calculator does not process character string results. If the calculator 
evaluates an expression that generates a character pointer result, the 
calculator displays an error message. If the preprocessor evaluates an 
expression that generates a character pointer result, the preprocessor 
replaces the expression with the string to which the result points.

While Calculator/Preprocessor is active, these calculator commands can 
keyed-in in the same way as MicroStation key-ins:
   CALCULATE [C_expression] -- calculates the result of a C expression. The 
result of the expression is displayed in the Command Window. CALCULATE 
alone directs the calculator to interpret all key-ins as expressions. This 
mode remains active until another command is activated.
   CALCULATE DECLARE DOUBLE [variable_name] -- declares a floating point 
variable for the calculator and preprocessor. The initial value for the 
variable is 0. The value's definition and value are saved between 
MicroStation sessions in "uservrbl.dat."
   CALCULATE DECLARE INT [variable_name] -- declares an integer variable 
for the calculator and preprocessor. The initial value for the variable is 
0. The value's definition and value are saved between MicroStation sessions 
in "uservrbl.dat."
   CALCULATE FORMAT DOUBLE [format_string] -- specifies the format string 
used to display the result of floating point expressions. The default is 
%g.
   For example, to calculate the value of 9000.10 in working units format, 
key in CALCULATE FORMAT DOUBLE %w and then key in CALCULATE 9000.10.
   CALCULATE FORMAT INT [format_string] -- specifies the format string used 
to display the result of integer expressions. The default is %d.
   For example, to calculate the hexadecimal value of decimal 100:, key in 
CALCULATE FORMAT INT %#X and then key in CALCULATE 100.
   For example, to calculate the decimal value of hexadecimal 100, key in 
CALCULATE FORMAT INT %d and then key in CALCULATE 0x100.
   UCCALC [C_expression] -- calculates the result of a C expression, but 
does not display the result. This command is intended for use in key-in 
strings generated in user commands with KEY statements. 
   
Note:
For more information about sending C expressions to the calculator from 
UCMs, see *Xref in the Development and Support Guide. 

While Calculator/Preprocessor is active, these preprocessor commands can 
keyed-in in the same way as MicroStation key-ins:
PREPROCESSOR [OFF|ON|TOGGLE] -- used to disable and enable preprocessing. 
PREPROCESSOR alone opens the Preprocessor settings box (*Xref). 

PREPROCESSOR FORMAT DOUBLE [format_string] -- specifies the format string 
used to substitute for floating point expressions. The default is %g.

PREPROCESSOR FORMAT INT [format_string] -- specifies the format string used 
to substitute for integer expressions. The default is %d.

PREPROCESSOR START [start_character] -- used to specify the character used 
to delimit the start of key-in strings for preprocessing. The default start 
delimiter is "{."

PREPROCESSOR END [end_character] -- used to specify the character used to 
delimit the end of key-in strings for preprocessing. The default end 
delimiter is "}."

PREPROCESSOR STATUS -- displays the current status of the preprocessor in 
the Command Window.



Preprocessor settings box
-------------------------

The Preprocessor settings box lets you disable and enable preprocessing and 
adjust the following preprocessor settings
*  Expression delimiters.
*  Output format strings.
   
>> To open this settings box:

1. Key in PREPROCESSOR.
   
You can customize Calculator/Preprocessor as follows:
*  Add variables through the "uservrbl.dat" file.
*  Add additional functions and variables from MDL programs.
*  Declare variables with the CALCULATOR DECLARE commands.
*  Completely replace the preprocessor with another MDL program.
   
During its initialization, Calculator/Preprocessor reads "uservrbl.dat." It 
looks for the file in the directory assigned to the MS_DATA environment 
variable. Each variable definition in the file has the following format:
*<type_name> <variable_name> <initial_value>

The possible values for type_name are string, double, and int. The variable 
names defined in "uservrbl.dat" are restricted to a maximum of 16 
characters. The initial value of the string begins with the first non-blank 
character after the variable name. It continues until the end of the line.

An example of a standard initialization file follows:
   *string lg lock grid
   *int baseValue 1
   *double baseUor 1.0
   
When Calculator/Preprocessor is being unloaded, it updates "uservrbl.dat." 
While updating, it records the types, names, and values of the variables 
defined in the "uservrbl.dat" file and those defined with CALCULATOR 
DECLARE commands. It does not save information about variables published 
from MDL programs.

MDL programs can add functions and variables to the calculator by 
publishing them with the mdlCExpression_symbolPublish function. Using a 
symbol set that has a VISIBILITY_CALCULATOR visibility makes the function 
or variable available to the calculator. This is the only way to add 
functions to the calculator.

For more information about adding MDL functions and variables to the 
calculator, see *Xref. Knowledge of MDL is required to completely 
understand the material.



Charting
--------

The Charting utility ("chart.ma") lets you create a variety of charts, 
including line, area, symbol, series bar, stacked bar, high-low bar, 
scatter and pie.

The chart depicts data in the chart spreadsheet, which can be generated by 
a SQL SELECT statement or from an imported ASCII file. Chart settings let 
you customize the chart's appearance.

You should understand these terms before using the Charting utility:
   Active chart style -- The chart style selected in the Gallery settings 
box. It is defined by a cell.
   Data stream -- A line of data or series of points in a chart.
   Gallery -- The available chart styles that can be selected in the 
Gallery settings box.
   
Note:
To create charts, these configuration variables must be set:

Configuration   Sets:
Var.

MS_GALLERYLIB   Gallery cell library "chart.cel" 
                and the directory it is 
                installed in

MS_GALLERYCELL  Default chart style



   See MicroStation for Windows NT for more information about setting 
configuration variables.
   
   Creating a Chart
   Chart components and styles
   Generating data and placing a chart
   Chart menu


Creating a Chart
----------------

1. Load "chart.ma."
   The Chart menu is added to the Command Window's menu bar.
2. Load data into the chart spreadsheet.
   
To get data     Choose from the Chart 
from:           menu:

Database query  Data > Load From Query

ASCII file      Data > Load From File


3. (Optional) Select the type of chart.
   From the Chart menu's Data Settings sub-menu, choose Gallery to open the 
Gallery settings box, which lets you select the type. See Data Settings > 
Gallery.
4. (Optional) Adjust the chart settings.
   
Settings For:   Choose from the Chart 
                menu:

Axis charts     Data Settings > Axis Chart

Pie charts      Data Settings > Pie Chart

General         Chart Settings > General

Legend          Chart Settings > Legend


5. Place the chart in the design file.
   
To place chart  Choose from the Chart 
by:             menu:

Defining its    Create Chart > Place by Corners
corners

Defining its oriCreate Chart > Place by Origin


6. (Optional) After the chart is placed, it is selected and you can modify 
its appearance in either of the folllowing ways:
   Selecting a different chart style in the Gallery settings box.
   Changing any chart setting and clicking the Apply button in the settings 
box in which it is set.
   
Once you perform another operation and the chart is de-selected, you can no 
longer modify the chart.

Note:
A chart is placed in the design as an orphan cell. It can be broken up into 
its components using the Drop Complex Status tool (*Xref) in the Drop 
Element sub-palette.



Chart components and styles
---------------------------

This section covers the components and styles of charts that can be 
created, along with some examples.

   Components common to all chart types
   Axis charts
   Above-below charts
   Pie charts


Components common to all chart types
------------------------------------

All charts can have the following components.
   Label -- 
   Legend -- 
   Legend symbols --  
   Title -- 


Axis charts
-----------

The following components are specific to axis charts
   Axis -- 
   Frame -- 
   Grid -- 
   Tick mark -- 
   


Above-below charts
------------------

Mid-bar -- 



Pie charts
----------

Each "slice" in a pie chart represents a column total in the chart 
spreadsheet.



Generating data and placing a chart
-----------------------------------

TBD



Chart menu
----------

The Chart menu has items for loading chart spreadsheet data, saving chart 
spreadsheet data to a file, creating and rebuilding charts, and for 
adjusting chart settings. This menu appears in the Command Window menu bar 
when the MDL application "chart.ma" is loaded.

To:                      Choose from the Chart 
                         menu:

Load data into the chart Data > Load From Query
spreadsheet from a SQL query.

Save the chart spreadsheeData > Save To File
an ASCII file.

Load data into the chart Data > Load From File
spreadsheet from an ASCII file.

Place a chart in the desiCreate Chart > Place by Corners
defining its corners.

Place a chart in the desiCreate Chart > Place by Origin
defining its origin.

Choose a chart type from Data Settings > Gallery
gallery.

Adjust axis chart settingData Settings > Axis Chart

Adjust pie chart settingsData Settings > Pie Chart

Adjust general chart settChart Settings > General

Adjust settings that affeChart Settings > Legend
legend's appearance.



   Data > Load From Query
   Data > Save To File
   Data > Load From File
   Create Chart > Place by Corners
   Create Chart > Place by Origin
   Data Settings > Gallery
   Data Settings > Axis Chart
   Data Settings > Pie Chart
   Chart Settings > General
   More Chart settings box
   Chart Settings > Legend


Data > Load From Query
----------------------

Submits the SELECT statement in the SQL Window (*Xref) to the active 
database, if the SQL Window is open. The result is loaded into the chart 
spreadsheet. 

If the SQL Window is not open, it is opened. After you key in a SELECT 
statement, choose Load From Query a second time.

Note:
To load data from a query, MicroStation must be set up to use a database. 
For information about setting up for Oracle, see "Setting Up MicroStation 
for Oracle" on page 15-7 of the MicroStation PC Version 4 Reference Guide. 
For information about setting up for Xbase, see Xbase Database Interface.



Data > Save To File
-------------------

Opens the Save Spreadsheet dialog box, which is used to save the chart 
spreadsheet to an ASCII text file.

   OK
   Cancel


OK
--

Saves to the specified file.



Cancel
------

Click if you decide not to save the spreadsheet.



Data > Load From File
---------------------

Opens the Load Spreadsheet dialog box, which is used to load an ASCII file 
into the chart spreadsheet.

The ASCII file must be tab or comma delimited. For example, a Microsoft 
Excel spreedsheet exported as a ".txt" or ".csv" file will work. The sample 
file "test.dat" listed below is an example of an acceptable file:

test.dat



,Jan,Feb,Mar,Apr,May,Jun,Jul,Aug,Sep,Oct,Nov,Dec



Row 1,551,112,883,224,995,336,667,888,119,330,661,222

Row 2,321,262,463,645,374,732,534,374,457,123,222,113

Row 3,121,578,217,946,665,123,876,765,285,645,534,578

Row 4,119,490,183,367,748,342,123,456,959,830,324,662

   OK
   Cancel


OK
--

Loads the selected file.



Cancel
------

Click if you decide not to load the selected file.



Create Chart > Place by Corners
-------------------------------

Used to place a chart in the design. The corners and the chart's aspect 
ratio are defined by two data points.

>> To place a chart by defining its corners:

1. From the Chart menu's Create Chart sub-menu, choose Place by Corners.
2. Enter a data point to define one corner.
3. Enter a data point to define the opposite corner and the chart's aspect 
ratio.
   


Create Chart > Place by Origin
------------------------------

Used to place a chart in the design file. The chart is placed at the active 
multi-line text justification and its origin is defined by a data point.

The Justification (*Xref) is set in in the Text settings box.

>> To place a chart by positioning its origin:

1. From the Chart menu's Create Chart sub-menu, choose Place by Origin.
2. Enter a data point to position the chart's origin.
   


Data Settings > Gallery
-----------------------

Opens the Gallery settings box, which is used to change the active chart 
style. The active chart style is displayed on the right-hand side of the 
settings box. 

   Description
   Apply
   Reset


Description
-----------

Contains the names and descriptions of the available chart styles. You can 
select a different style.



Apply
-----

Makes the selected style the active chart style. All chart settings are set 
to the selected style's attributes.



Reset
-----

Makes the default chart style the active chart style.



Data Settings > Axis Chart
--------------------------

Opens the Axis Chart settings box, which is used to customize the 
appearance of the selected data stream.

   Name
   Data Type
   Display
   Fill
   Symbol Type
   Symbol Size
   Style
   Weight
   Color
   Spreadsheet
   File/Query
   Bar Width
   Pie Chart
   Apply
   Reset


Name
----

The name of the selected data stream, which appears in the chart's legend.



Data Type
---------

The type of the selected data stream. Can be Line, Symbol, Series Bar, 
Stacked Bar, High-low Bar, or Scatter.
Note:
High-low bar and scatter charts require two rows from the chart spreadsheet 
instead of one row to define each data stream. 

Hint:
Any of the data stream types can be combined to create custom charts, such 
as a high-low-close chart, except for scatter. If the data stream type is 
scatter, all data streams are similarly set. Likewise, when the data stream 
type is changed from scatter, all data streams are set to the new Data 
Type.



Display
-------

If on, the selected data stream is displayed in the chart.



Fill
----

If on, the selected data stream is filled.



Symbol Type
-----------

The symbol type for the selected axis chart data stream -- can be circles, 
triangles, boxes, diamonds, horizontal lines, vertical lines, x-crosses, 
plus-crosses or stars; has no meaning for the other data stream types.



Symbol Size
-----------

The symbol size in master units for the axis chart symbol or scatter data 
stream; has no meaning for other data stream types. 



Style
-----

The data stream's line style. 

Note:
Line styles other than solid are ignored for filled area data stream types. 




Weight
------

The data stream's line weight. 

Note:
Line weights other than 0 are ignored for filled data streams.



Color
-----

The data stream's color.



Spreadsheet
-----------

The source of the chart spreadsheet



File/Query
----------

The source of the chart spreadsheet



Bar Width
---------

The total bar width as a percentage of the width between grid lines for the 
series, stacked and high-low bar data streams.



Pie Chart
---------

Opens the Pie Chart dialog box. The Axis Chart dialog box closes.



Apply
-----

Applies the chart settings to the selected chart. 

This button is not available (it is dimmed) unless a chart in the design is 
still selected.



Reset
-----

Resets the axis chart settings to those of the active chart style.



Data Settings > Pie Chart
-------------------------

Opens the Pie Chart settings box, which is used to adjust settings that 
affect the appearance of a pie chart.

   Name
   Explode
   Display
   Color
   Direction
   Start Angle
   Explode Gap
   Label Gap
   (Label) Font
   (Label) Height
   (Label) Width
   (Label) Weight
   (Label) Color
   (Label) Location
   Spreadsheet
   File/Query
   Axis Chart
   Apply
   Reset


Name
----

The slice's name, which appears in the chart's legend. Each pie slice 
represents the columnar sum of all axis chart data streams. Pie slice names 
are equivalent to x-axis grid tick labels. 



Explode
-------

If on, the slice is exploded.



Display
-------

If on, the slice is displayed.



Color
-----

The slice's color.



Direction
---------

The direction in which the slices are displayed -- either clockwise or 
counter-clockwise.



Start Angle
-----------

The offset angle (in degrees) of the first slice.



Explode Gap
-----------

The distance in master units between the pie chart's origin and the apex of 
an exploded slice.



Label Gap
---------

The distance in master units between the outer edge of a pie chart slice 
and the center of pie slice's label.



(Label) Font
------------

The font used for pie chart slice labels.



(Label) Height
--------------

The text height in master units of the pie chart slice labels.



(Label) Width
-------------

The text width in master units of the pie chart slice labels.



(Label) Weight
--------------

The text weight in master units of the pie chart slice labels.



(Label) Color
-------------

The color of the pie chart slice labels.



(Label) Location
----------------

The location of the pie chart slice labels
*  Inside -- Inside the pie slice
*  Outside -- Outside the pie slice
*  Not Displayed -- No labels are displayed. 
   


Spreadsheet
-----------

The source of the chart spreadsheet



File/Query
----------

The source of the chart spreadsheet



Axis Chart
----------

Opens the Axis Chart settings box. The Pie Chart settings box closes.



Apply
-----

Applies the chart settings to the selected chart. 

This button is not available (it is greyed out) unless a chart in the 
design is selected.



Reset
-----

Resets the pie chart settings to those of the active chart style.



Chart Settings > General
------------------------

Opens the Chart settings box, which lets you adjust settings that affect 
the appearance of the title, axis labels, grid tick labels, grid ticks, 
grids, mid-bar, frame, or background.

   Component
   Display
   Gap
   Font
   Height
   Width
   Style
   Weight
   Color
   Title
   X Axis
   Y Axis
   More
   Apply
   Reset


Component
---------

The component whose settings are displayed and can be adjusted. You can 
select a different component in the list box.



Display
-------

If on, the selected component is displayed in the chart.



Gap
---

The distance in master units between the selected component and an adjacent 
component. The gaps are interpreted from the outside towards the inside. 
For example, the gap for the background element is the distance between the 
background shape and the title text, the title gap is the distance between 
the title text and the chart frame, and so on.



Font
----

The component's font. Has no meaning for non-text components.



Height
------

The component's text height in master units -- has no meaning for non-text 
components.



Width
-----

The component's text height in master units -- has no meaning for non-text 
components.



Style
-----

The component's line style.



Weight
------

The component's line weight.



Color
-----

The component's color.



Title
-----

The chart's title.



X Axis
------

The horizontal axis' label -- has no meaning for pie charts.



Y Axis
------

The vertical axis' label -- has no meaning for pie charts.



More
----

Opens the More Chart settings box.



Apply
-----

Applies the chart settings to the selected chart. 

This button is not available (it is dimmed) unless a chart in the design is 
selected.



Reset
-----

Resets the general chart settings to those defined by the active chart 
style.



More Chart settings box
-----------------------

Used to set less-often-used chart settings. Opens when you click the More 
button in the Chart settings box.

   Level
   Chart Height
   (Chart) Width
   Title Loc(ation)
   Min(imum) X
   Min(imum) Y
   Max(imum) X
   Max(imum) Y
   Tick Size
   X Grid
   Y Grid
   Midbar (Value)
   Frame Type
   Adjust (Frame)
   Apply
   Reset


Level
-----

The level on which the chart cell is placed.



Chart Height
------------

The chart's height in master units when placed by its origin (see Create 
Chart > Place by Origin).

The Chart Height is the height ruler for other height settings --if a chart 
placed by corners has twice the height as when placed by point then all 
height settings are doubled. 

If the Legend Height is greater than the Chart Height, then it is used as 
the height ruler instead.



(Chart) Width
-------------

The chart's width in master units when placed by its origin (see Create 
Chart > Place by Origin).

The Chart Width is the width ruler for all other width settings -- if a 
chart placed by corners has twice the width as when placed by point, then 
all width settings are doubled. 

If a legend is displayed, then the sum of the Chart Width, (Legend) Width 
and Background Gap are used as the width ruler. 



Title Loc(ation)
----------------

The location of the chart's title --  Top, Bottom, Left, or Right.



Min(imum) X
-----------

The minimum for x-axis values to override the minimum value in the chart 
spreadsheet for scatter charts. 

By default, the minimum value is either:
*  Zero if all spreadsheet x-axis values are positive.
*  A multiple of 2, 5 or 10 that includes any negative x-axis values. 
   


Min(imum) Y
-----------

The minimum for y-axis values to override the minimum value in the chart 
spreadsheet. Has no meaning for pie charts.

By default, the minimum value is either:
*  Zero if all spreadsheet y-axis values are positive.
*  A multiple of 2, 5 or 10 that includes any negative y-axis values. 
   


Max(imum) X
-----------

The maximum for x-axis values to override the maximum value in the chart 
spreadsheet for scatter charts. 

By default, the maximum value is either:
*  Zero, if all spreadsheet x-axis values are negative.
*  A multiple of 2, 5 or 10 that includes any positive x-axis values. 
   


Max(imum) Y
-----------

The maximum for y-axis values to override the maximum value in the chart 
spreadsheet. Has no meaning for pie charts.

By default, the maximum value is either:
*  Zero if all spreadsheet y-axis values are negative.
*  A multiple of 2, 5 or 10 that includes any positive y-axis values. 
   


Tick Size
---------

The length of grid ticks in master units. Has no meaning for pie charts.



X Grid
------

How the vertical grids along the x-axis display -- Over Data, Under Data, 
or Display Off. Has no meaning for pie charts.



Y Grid
------

How the horizontal grids along the y-axis display -- Over Data, Under Data, 
or Display Off. Has no meaning for pie charts.



Midbar (Value)
--------------

The midbar's position along the y-axis in above-below line, area, series 
bar, stacked bar and hi-low bar charts. By default, Midbar is zero (the 
midbar is not displayed). Midbar has no meaning for symbol or scatter axis 
charts nor for pie charts.



Frame Type
----------

The type of frame (has no meaning for pie charts).
*  Half -- TBD
*  Full -- TBD
   


Adjust (Frame)
--------------

If on, the first and last x-grids are of an axis chart are offset so that 
data does not fall on the y-axis or on the frame. Has no meaning for pie 
charts.



Apply
-----

Applies the chart settings to the selected chart. 

This button is not available (it is dimmed) unless a chart in the design is 
selected.



Reset
-----

Resets the chart settings to those of the active chart style.



Chart Settings > Legend
-----------------------

Opens the Legend Settings box, which is used to adjust settings that affect 
the legend's appearance. 

   Location
   Display
   Legend Height
   (Legend) Width
   Background Gap
   (Background) Color
   Labels Gap
   (Label) Font
   (Label) Height
   (Label) Width
   (Label) Weight
   (Label) Color
   (Label) Loc
   Apply
   Reset


Location
--------

The legend's location -- to the left or right of the chart.



Display
-------

If on, the legend is placed.

If off, no legend is placed.



Legend Height
-------------

The legend's height in master units. See Chart Height.



(Legend) Width
--------------

The legend's width in master units. See (Chart) Width.



Background Gap
--------------

The gap in master units between the legend's background and the chart's 
background.



(Background) Color
------------------

The legend's background color.



Labels Gap
----------

The gap (in master units) between the legend's background and its labels 
and symbol components. 



(Label) Font
------------

The legend label's font.



(Label) Height
--------------

The legend labels' text height in master units.



(Label) Width
-------------

The legend labels' text width in master units.



(Label) Weight
--------------

The legend labels' line weight.



(Label) Color
-------------

The legend labels' color.



(Label) Loc
-----------

The legend labels' location
*  Left -- Left of the legend symbols.
*  Right -- Right of the legend symbols.
   


Apply
-----

Applies the chart settings to the selected chart. 

This button is not available (it is dimmed) unless a chart in the design is 
selected.



Reset
-----

Resets the legend settings to those of the active chart style.



Screen Capture
--------------

The Screen Capture utility ("scrncapt.ma") is used to make a "screen shot" 
of the contents of a MicroStation screen or part of a screen and save it in 
a specified file format. Screen Capture is designed to take snapshots of 
items in MicroStation's or an MDL application's graphical user interface -- 
such as tool palettes, dialog boxes, and pull-down menus -- for use in 
documentation or training manuals.

Screen Capture captures an image at the resolution of the monitor being 
used, exactly as it appears on screen, except that the screen pointer is 
not shown. 

Keep these considerations in mind:
*  Use of certain word processing or page layout software with certain 
printers may not produce a high quality printed image of greyscale 
information in a screen shot.
*  In many screen shots, elements suffer a loss of detail. To reproduce 
detailed linework, it is usually best to plot the view as an Encapsulated 
PostScript (EPS) or HPGL plotfile, depending upon which format works best 
with your software and hardware.
*  The quality of rendered images captured using Screen Capture is limited 
by the resolution and the number of colors your monitor supports. The Save 
Image As... item in the File menu produces 24-bit files at user-specified 
resolution, making a much higher quality printed image possible if a high 
resolution output device is used.
   
   Capturing Part or All of a Screen:
   Capture Screen Output dialog box


Capturing Part or All of a Screen
---------------------------------

1. Load "scrncapt.ma."
2. Configure part or all of the display as it is to appear in the screen 
shot.
3. Use one of Screen Capture's key-ins to define the portion of the screen 
to capture. (See "Key-ins," below.)
   The Capture Screen Output dialog box is displayed.
4. Select the filename and format for the screen capture. (See "Capture 
Screen Output dialog box," below.)
5. Click the OK button.
   While the image is saved, an animated character appears in the Command 
Window.
   
   To capture a rectangular area inside a view:
   To capture the contents of a view:
   To capture the contents and border of a view:
   To capture an entire screen:
   To capture a pull-down menu:


To capture a rectangular area inside a view
-------------------------------------------

1. Key in CAPTURE RECTANGLE.
2. Enter a data point to define one corner of the area to capture.
3. Enter a data point to define the other corner of the area to capture. 
This data point must be entered in the same view as the first.
   


To capture the contents of a view
---------------------------------

1. Key in CAPTURE VIEW CONTENTS.
2. Select the view to capture.
   


To capture the contents and border of a view
--------------------------------------------

1. Key in CAPTURE VIEW WINDOW.
2. Select the view to capture.
   


To capture an entire screen
---------------------------

1. Key in CAPTURE SCREEN.
The pointer determines which screen is captured if more than one monitor is 
used, but is not included in the image captured.

Hint:
If the CAPTURE SCREEN key-in is added to a function key menu, it can then 
be activated by pressing the function key to which it is assigned. This is 
useful for documenting the exact state of MicroStation during a particular 
operation, and is the only way to make screen shots of pull-down menus and 
modal dialog boxes. For more information about function key menus, see 
"Menu Reference" (User menu).



To capture a pull-down menu
---------------------------

1. Post the menu.
2. Press the function key that is defined as CAPTURE SCREEN.
   


Capture Screen Output dialog box
--------------------------------

   Image Type
   Mode 
   Name


Image Type
----------

Any of the following formats can be chosen
*  GIF
*  Intergraph RGB
*  Microsoft Windows (BMP)
*  PCX
*  PICT (Macintosh)
*  Encapsulated PostScript (EPS)
*  Sun Raster
*  Targa
*  TIFF (Compressed)
*  TIFF (Uncompressed)
*  WordPerfect (WPG)
*  X Window IMG
   
Note:
The 24-bit PICT output produced by MicroStation uses direct RGB PixMaps 
(described in Inside the Macintosh VI). To use these PICTs on the 
Macintosh, you must have either System 7.0 or 32-bit QuickDraw version 1.2 
under System 6.0.x.

Hint:
If a PICT file produced by MicroStation takes too long to print from a 
Macintosh, display the file on the screen at 100% scale and use a screen 
capture utility to recapture the screen.



Mode 
-----

The available options depend upon which Image Type is chosen. For example, 
Intergraph RGB supports only 24-bit color, while PICT supports 24-bit 
color, 256 colors, and grey scale.

Unless the image is used with a display that supports 24-bit color or is 
printed in color, using either 256 color or grey scale mode saves 
processing time and causes image files to be smaller, with no loss of 
quality, especially if the final output is monochrome (for example, this 
guide). 

Contains controls used to specify the destination path and filename. These 
controls work the same as the analogous controls in the Save Design As 
dialog box *Xref.



Name
----

The default filename is "screen.<file_type >" where file_type is a three 
letter extension that depends upon the image type chosen. By default the 
file is saved in the directory pointed to by the MS_TMP configuration 
variable.

If the last character in either the filename or file_type is a number 
(0-9), Screen Capture increments that number when subsequent screens are 
captured. For example, if a screen shot is called "screen19.tif" then the 
next screen shot has a default name "screen20.tif." This greatly simplifies 
the naming of a series of screen shots.

