Gretl Manual: Gnu Regression, Econometrics and Time-series Library
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# Binary databases

For working with large amounts of data I have supplied `gretl` with a database-handling routine. A database, as opposed to a data file, is not read directly into the program's workspace. A database can contain series of mixed frequencies and sample ranges. You open the database and select series to import into the working dataset. You can then save those series in a native format data file if you wish. Databases can be accessed via `gretl`'s menu item "File, Browse databases".

For details on the format of `gretl` databases, see Appendix A.

## Online access to databases

As of version 0.40, `gretl` is able to access databases via the internet. Several databases are available from Wake Forest University. Your computer must be connected to the internet for this option to work. Please see the item on "Online databases" under `gretl`'s Help menu.

## RATS 4 databases

Thanks to Thomas Doan of Estima, who provided me with the specification of the database format used by RATS 4 (Regression Analysis of Time Series), `gretl` can also handle such databases. Well, actually, a subset of same: I have only worked on time-series databases containing monthly and quarterly series. My university has the RATS G7 database containing data for the seven largest OECD economies and `gretl` will read that OK.

> Tip: Visit the `gretl` data page for details and updates on available data.

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