6.2 Define Attributes

This function allows the user to define attribute names for the current GOF. Attributes can be used to help further define or describe graphics elements. For example, a polygon GOF may have the attributes class and site defined. For each polygon selected by the user, these attributes may optionally be given corresponding values. A maximum of 35 attributes may be defined for each type of GOF.

Attributes may be defined before, during, or after a graphics element has been selected. Attributes may also be defined while editing a graphics element.

The ascii, integer, and real radio buttons allow the user to select a data type for the value of the attribute. This data type is used for some basic type checking when the attribute is given a value.

Ascii:
The attribute is treated as a character string.

Integer:
The attribute is treated as integer data.

Real:
The attribute is treated as floating point or real data.

Attribute Name:
Enter the attribute name to be defined. The attribute name may contain up to eight characters and each GOF may contain a maximum of 35 unique attributes. The user does not need to press enter after specifying the attribute name. The attribute name is accepted when the user selects the OK button.

OK:
Write the specified attribute name to the GOF. An error message will be displayed if the attribute name contains too many characters, if the attribute name is not unique, or if no attribute name was specified.

Dismiss:
Close the define attributes panel.