A standard multidimensional, easy-access data file structure for Apple II computers

Abstract

A random access file structure was designed for Apple II microcomputers that allows data storage of more than 65 500 data values at 170 per Kbyte with a dynamic range of nearly 5 orders of magnitude. All or part of the data are easily accessible from BASIC under ProDOS operating conditions. The file structure accommodates single or multiple data sets in a single data file. Data values within a file with one set of data may interrelate by equal spacing along a second coordinate, such as time or space. Multiple data sets in a file can be independent, parallel or interdependent. Each interdependent data set defines the position of a data point along its coordinate in a two- or multidimensional registration system. The lowest and highest values of each data set are separately recorded to allow easy manipulation of even part of the data, e.g. for graphical presentation. The possibility of storing large numbers of data values in a single file facilitates high-resolution recording of events and simple mathematical manipulation.