DataShow GRA

DataShow GRA is a raster graphics format associated with DataShow. DataShow is a presentation and multi-purpose graphics application for DOS, developed by René Michael Plambek.

GRA is a somewhat crude non-compressed format, apparently for a full-screen image.

See also DataShow Sprite.

Discussion

Here's a way to view a GRA file in DataShow Pro v1.4A (assumes you have a way to run DOS software):

• Figure out what mode the GRA file uses (see the Identification section of this page).
• Put the file in the same directory as SHOW.EXE (not required, but simpler).
• Run SHOW.EXE.
• At the main menu, press F9 (Setup).
• Use up/down arrow keys to move the cursor to the "Default Graphics mode" item.
• Use "+"/"-" keys to select the correct graphics mode, then press F10.
• At the main menu, press F4 (Draw).
• At the Draw Center menu, press F9 (Setup).
• Use up/down arrow keys to move the cursor to the "Graphics type" item.
• Use "+"/"-" keys to select "GRA" format, then press F10.
• Press F2 (Files).
• Use arrow keys to select "Load file", and press Enter.
• Type the filename, and press Enter. Dismiss the message.
• At the Draw Center menu, press F4 ("Draw"). The image should be displayed. Press F10 when done.

Identification

A GRA file can perhaps be identified using the file size, and the first 3 or 4 bytes of the file. Note that the first two bytes are the image width, minus 1.

[The information in this table was derived from minimal testing, and may be incomplete.]

Software

• DataShow v1.5B (1991-06)
• DataShow v2.5A (1992-03)
• DataShow v4.3A (1994-06)
• DataShow v5.0A (1994-11)
• DataShow v7.0A (1995-08)
• DataShow, Pro Version 1.0A (1995-10)
• DataShow, Pro Version 1.4A (1996-03)
• abydos

Sample files

• show15.zip → PROMOTE1.GRA (CGA mode)
• show70.zip → PROMOTE1.GRA (EGA1 mode)
• dexvert samples — image/dataShowGraphic