User guide > Data > Data overview

CL can read three kinds of raw data - portable CSV data, character data, and column binary data. Each script can only use one type of data file.

There are two types character data: ASC and UNI, see character data for details.

CL can write character and binary data (writing out raw data is for historical reasons known as punching), and can be used to convert one form to another.

Raw data generated and processed with CL can be used directly by other software.

Data may be exported to other software using the CL menu.

Raw data can be read from up to four streams. These are known as stream A, B, C and stream D. Streams A and B can consist of any number of files to be read sequentially. Streams C and D may only read one data file.

Raw data can be punched to twelve separate streams. These are known as stream A to stream L. Each stream may consist of only one output file.

Raw data can only be read and punched in a Data Stage. Variable contents can also be listed in a tables stage using the L (list) command.

CL can also read and write its own internal data files, known as intermediate data files (.IDF). These files cannot be generated or processed by other programs.

Data is packed very efficiently in .IDF files, and is accessed very quickly by CL. For large projects we suggest that you create an IDF which can be reused again and again without reading the raw data files.

IDFs can only be written in a Data Stage, and only read in Tables Stages.

Both raw data and IDF data can be read from and displayed at the screen.

Data can be output to the Report file, using the L (list) command, and run control parameter STRIPRPT (often with format NVWL). Verbatim reports can also be generated in this way.