FEP - Format Developer - UCLA flat file system

1. History and Philosophy

We wanted something SIMPLE, FAST, COMPACT and easy to use.

2. Conceptual Model

ascii header for meta data
binary flat file for data

3. Format Details

we use this on PCs and unix workstations
our analysis software only uses this format

4. Uses

analysis,transfer,archive

5. Format Developer Software

a list of utility programs available on request

6. Software Standard Features

this is our standard - do not understand the question

7. Non-developer Software

We do not use vendor supplied software except when forced on us by NASA. Most often we write our own code so it is transportable. Proprietary code is a big expense to us and to government. It should be avoid at all costs so to speak.

8. User Support

We support it from our own staff. There are probably a half dozen groups that use our software and standards

9. Work In Progress

to use our software and standards

10. Evolution Plans

None - we are very happy

11. Documentation and Related References

available on request

12. Other Comments

Our biggest problem has been having to work with groups who have ill conceived formats such as cdf. This has wasted much programmer time and prevented students from interacting with the databases in these poorly conceived formats. These formats are cost drivers. Developers must Keep It Simple !

Wider Views