ASCII

This is a file whose contents can be read by any text editor, word processor, or even with the TYPE command in DOS.  This type of file is very easy to edit, but error checking can not be done until the file is used by the program.

Recent changes to Intersection Magic make heavy use of ASCII files.  These files are more easy to manipulate, copy, read, and automate.  They can be generated by databases, spreadsheets, word processors, and by any popular programming language (i.e.: Basic, Pascal, C++, etc.).

Please be aware that most word processors do not default to using ASCII text files.  ASCII files can be read into any word processor, but when the files are saved, special "control characters" are added to the file.  This is not compatible with IMW.  Most word processors allow the user to export, save as, or convert to ASCII format.  Please see your word processor manual for more information on ASCII files.

For the reasons described above, Intersection Magic includes a text file editor.  To open or create a file, select Edit / Open edit window.  To edit any of the configuration files, it is best to use the edit option on the Utilities / Edit config files menu.  Choose the file type and select edit.  This also ensures that if a specialized editor or dialog box has been developed for this file, you will be directed to it.

For more information on the built-in text editor see Editor.