Using Data Definition Format Files to Create CHIPS Messages

The data definition format (DDF) is a IBM® format that contains an XML-formatted description of the input or output side of a source map and has the file extension .ddf. DDF files include the hierarchical and looping structure of the data, the map objects (CHIPS fields and elements) and their attributes (for example, names, descriptions, data types).

Note: DDF files do not contain standard or extended rules, links, or any other map information unrelated to the data format. The one exception is the Use Code code lists. If the map references a Use Code standard rule and instructs Sterling B2B Integrator to raise a compliance error if the code is not found in the Use Code code list, Sterling B2B Integrator saves the standard rule and the associated code list.

The following CHIPS messages require you to use a DDF file:

  • Status Active Participants Response
  • Status Funded Participants Response
  • Cutoff Time Response
  • Queue Status Response

Requirement for Using DDF Files

Because DDF files are formatted in XML, you must have the Microsoft XML Core Services (MSXML) 4.0 installed on the same computer as the Sterling B2B Integrator Map Editor. You can obtain Microsoft XML Core Services (MSXML) 4.0 by installing the most current release of Microsoft Internet Explorer. If you do not have the Microsoft XML Core Services (MSXML) 4.0 installed, theSterling B2B Integrator Map Editor cannot support DDF files.