Maps and map source files

The tasks involved in creating and managing map files include:

• Creating map source files (.mms)
• Creating maps in the map source file
• Creating input and output cards for the map
• Building compiled maps (.mmc)
• Running maps
• Viewing run results

A map defines how to generate a data object of a certain type or multiple independent data objects, each of a certain type. A map contains input and output cards that transform data content from source formats to destination formats according to rules contained in the map.

A map source file is used to store maps that are related to one another. A map source file is a file you create and save using the commands on the File menu in the Transformation Extender Development perspective. A map source file has the file name extension .mms. A map source file maintains maps in source format. Map source files contain maps and functional maps.

After starting the Design Studio, the Extender Navigator view lists one or more map source files depending on whether you selected to create a new map source file or to open one or more existing map source files. The full path and filename of the map selected in the Extender Navigator view appear in the Map Designer tab.

After a map source file is created, the map source file name and icon appear in the Composition view and Outline view of the Extender Navigator view.

The Composition view displays a map only after an input or output card has been added to the map.

Maps are not executed directly from a map source file. You must first build (compile) a map before you can execute it. Compiled maps have the file name extension .mmc.