NDF_ASTYP - Set a new numeric type for an NDF axis array

Description:

The routine sets a new numeric type for an NDF axis array, causing its data storage type to be changed. If the array's values are defined, they will be converted from from the old type to the new one. If they are undefined, then no conversion will be necessary. Subsequent enquiries will reflect the new numeric type. Conversion may be performed between any numeric types supported by the NDF_ routines.

Invocation:

CALL NDF_ASTYP( TYPE, INDF, COMP, IAXIS, STATUS )

Arguments:

TYPE = CHARACTER $*$ ( $*$ ) (Given)

New numeric type for the axis array (e.g. '_DOUBLE').

INDF = INTEGER (Given)

NDF identifier.

COMP = CHARACTER $*$ ( $*$ ) (Given)

Name of the axis array component whose numeric type is to be set: 'CENTRE', 'VARIANCE' or 'WIDTH'.

IAXIS = INTEGER (Given)

Number of the NDF axis whose array is to be modified.

STATUS = INTEGER (Given and Returned)

The global status.

Notes:

• A comma-separated list of axis array component names may also be supplied, in which case the numeric type of each array will be set to the same value in turn.

• A value of zero may be supplied for the IAXIS argument, in which case the routine will set a new numeric type for the specified component(s) of all the NDF's axes.

• This routine may only be used to change the numeric type of an axis array via a base NDF. If an NDF section is supplied, then it will return without action. No error will result.

• The numeric type of an axis array component cannot be changed while it, or any part of it, is mapped for access (e.g. via another NDF identifier). This routine will fail, and set a STATUS value, if this is the case.

• If the numeric type of an axis array component is to be changed without its values being retained, then a call to NDF_AREST should be made beforehand. This will avoid the cost of converting all the values.