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What is a .pcf file?

A .pcf file is a text file that contains a series of commands that PrestoPlot can automatically execute. These commands allow scripting of chart creation and image generation, which can then be dynamically integrated into reports.

How to create a .pcf file?

The simplest way to create a .pcf file is to use the recording feature in PrestoPlot:

  1. Recording actions: PrestoPlot records most user actions (such as opening files, creating charts, or using the calculator) in a "log window".
  2. File generation: A button named Create PCF from log allows you to automatically build the .pcf command file from the actions recorded in this log.
  3. Saving: When you save this file, for example naming it my_macro, the .pcf extension is added automatically.

Not all actions are recorded in the log. For example, specific curve settings (such as thickness or color) are not included.

What does a .pcf file contain?

A .pcf file contains a list of commands that reproduce user actions (see all available commands).

Here are some examples of actions that can be scripted:

  • Load data files, using either absolute or relative file paths.
  • Create new variables using the integrated calculator.
  • Create charts, add titles, and rename them.
  • Export charts as images (e.g., in PNG format), optionally specifying format and size.
  • Save charts in PrestoPlot format (.pgr).

How to run a .pcf file?

There are several ways to execute a .pcf macro:

  1. From the PrestoPlot interface:
  2. Using the PCF icon.
  3. With the F5 keyboard shortcut.

  4. By simply dragging and dropping the .pcf file into the PrestoPlot window.

  5. From the command line: A .pcf file can be executed directly from a command line, which is very useful for process automation.

  6. File association: It is possible to associate the .pcf extension with the PrestoPlot executable. Once this association is made, double-clicking on a .pcf file will launch PrestoPlot (if not already open) and execute the commands it contains.

Example of a .pcf file

# Load in a set of data from the POM packet
-load "D:/USERS/Presto/PrestoDecom/Resultats/POM_2003_06_16_10_12_59_Decom.tsv"
# Draw a graph from the loaded data
-loadmodel "D:/USERS/Presto/PrestoPlot/Saved/Pom.pmd"
# Save the graph as a gif image file
-savegif "D:/USERS/Presto/PrestoPlot/Saved/Pom.gif"
# Delete the graph
-closegraph LAST
# Delete the loaded data
-deletedata "IBAT VBAT"