Convert SAS file tp flat file

Shubhabrata Roy · New User Joined: 28 May 2009 Posts: 4 Location: Bangalore

Hi,

HOw can I convert saS file to flat file? Please let me know the possible solution.

Robert Sample · Posted: Fri Dec 04, 2009 6:08 pm

Use a SAS data step to input the file and write it to a sequential file. SAS data sets cannot be read by system utilities as they are in a proprietary SAS format.

vasanthz · Posted: Fri Dec 04, 2009 6:19 pm

As Robert said, it cannot be converted. However it can be unloaded to a flat file using file statement & data step.

Try this link if you are new to SAS,
www.technion.ac.il/docs/sas/cms/z0606442.htm

Good luck.

Shubhabrata Roy · New User Joined: 28 May 2009 Posts: 4 Location: Bangalore

So is there a way of knowing what record is there in the SAS file???

vasanthz · Posted: Fri Dec 04, 2009 6:40 pm

Yes you can know wats in there by browsing the dataset through SAS editor. Not through ISPF. browse option.

Dont do it. If you open it in edit mode, then it damages the dataset & then SAS gets confused when reading it & you will get confused of the data.

Robert Sample · Posted: Fri Dec 04, 2009 6:43 pm

PROC CONTENTS will give what SAS knows about the SAS data set.

PeterHolland · Posted: Fri Dec 04, 2009 6:46 pm

Use the proc contents procedure.