Frequently asked questions - RTRA

I have logged onto my Electronic File Transfer account, where is the dataset?

Researchers using the Real Time Remote Access (RTRA) system do not gain direct access to the microdata and cannot view the content of the microdata file. Instead, users submit SAS programs to extract results in the form of frequency tables.

What output will I receive?

For each successful SAS program submitted, four types of files will be returned to you:

1. Customized SAS Log (.log); Contains all elements of a standard SAS log with the exception of the number of observation, which has been removed to protect confidentiality.
2. RTRA log created from the RTRA system (.txt); Informs users about which stage of the RTRA process the SAS program has successfully completed.
3. SAS datasets (.sas7bdat); Contains output results in SAS database format.
4. Table (.csv); contain output results in SAS database format.
5. HTML tables (.html); Contains output results in HTML format.

If you have not received a SAS output dataset and an HTML output table, please check your SAS log and RTRA log to view the errors associated with the submission.

Why is my output file name different than my submitted file name?

Output returned through the RTRA will be prefixed with a submission code. This code allows the RTRA team to track your submission in the occurrence of a system error.

How are the data rounded?

The RTRA System applies Additive and Controlled Rounding to all frequencies which does not affect the accuracy of the data. More information can be found in your RTRA Electronic File Transfer (EFT) safe.

Where are the variable descriptions for the datasets?

You will find variable descriptions and details about datasets in the RTRA Electronic File Transfer (EFT) safe.

What are the system limits of RTRA?

Please consult the Real Time Remote Access user guide for details.

How do I reset my password?

Passwords can be reset directly on the EFT website by clicking on the “Forgot Password” link on the sign in page.