The analysis status of the database is indicated by a model status indicator light on the status bar at the bottom of the screen. This indicates whether or not the analysis is performed and current. A File – Model Status command is also available for more detailed information. If it is indicated that the model cannot be run in the selected module, the dialog will also list what information is still needed. Refer to the Model Status Section of the RAM Manager manual for more information.

Frame analysis is performed when the Analyze command is invoked. A red, yellow or green light at the right end of the status bar indicates the current status of the database. A red light indicates that the database has not yet been analyzed, or that a change to the model or criteria requires the database to be re-analyzed. Results cannot be viewed nor outputs obtained if the red light is showing. The Analysis mode cannot be changed while the status is red.

A green light indicates that the database has been analyzed and the results are valid for all members. Results can be viewed and outputs obtained.

A yellow light indicates that one or more member sizes or attributes in the database have been modified using one of the Assign commands or the Update Database command of the View/Update capability. This renders the analysis results technically invalid since changing a member size changes the frame stiffness and affects the distribution of forces. However, at the user’s discretion, the changes may be deemed sufficiently minor and the results deemed sufficiently accurate to continue using the previous analysis results. Results can be viewed and outputs obtained, but the yellow light serves as a warning that the analysis results are inaccurate and are based on different member attributes than are in the current model. At some point the user should re-invoke Analyze to get updated results.