topic Re: X command where DOS window is minimized? in SAS Programming

X command where DOS window is minimized?

PaigeMiller — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 13:37:27 GMT

Can I issue a DOS command in SAS by using the X command, in such a way that the resulting DOS window is either minimized, or doesn't pop up at all? Windows 7 Professional, 64 bit, SAS 9.3

Thanks.

Re: X command where DOS window is minimized?

data_null__ — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:43:04 GMT

I think there are some options for that but I like using the PIPE access method to execute DOS commands.

command='DIR /s';

infile dummy pipe filevar=command .....;

You can then read the output from DIR into a data set.

You can also look at SYSTASK COMMAND to execute DOS commands.

Generally I don't like X.

Re: X command where DOS window is minimized?

PaigeMiller — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:45:57 GMT

Are you saying (implying) that if I use the Pipe access method, no DOS windows pops up? Because in this particular instance, I don't really need the features you mention.

Re: X command where DOS window is minimized?

ballardw — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:46:48 GMT

System option XMIN sounds like what you are looking for.

options xmin;

Re: X command where DOS window is minimized?

PaigeMiller — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:51:24 GMT

Thanks! Often, finding the right option isn't easy through documentation, its much easier to ask.

Re: X command where DOS window is minimized?

data_null__ — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:51:36 GMT

Yes. And you don't have to worry about xmin xwait xsysn etc.

Re: X command where DOS window is minimized?

Ksharp — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 02:29:29 GMT

Or another option maybe you like.

options noxwait ;