Labels and Annotations

An Altair Binary Format file can include labels and annotations that contain additional information.

Labels allow you to use abbreviated references to data divisions rather than the full name when selecting plot data. Labels can be attached to currently open datatypes, requests and components, using abfLabelDatatype(), abfLabelRequest(), and abfLabelComponent(), respectively.

Annotations allow you to include non-numeric data in ABF files. abfAnnotateFile() imbeds a string in the file header which is automatically displayed in the message log when the file is accessed. Information concerning how a set of values was generated such as date, equipment used, or parameters used, is presented when the data is accessed. Individual requests can also be annotated on the currently open request using abfAnnotateRequest(). Request annotations can be accessed in the program notes through the Templex variable, note.