R-beta: first view, then save plot or image?

[Ross Ihaka]

> I know how to first set postscript output, then execute plot or image
> command to create a postscript file of a plot or image.
> 
> I was wondering if it is possible to first create the plot or image on
> screen so it can be viewed, THEN save it to file?  Without doing plot() or
> image() again?
> 
> (I ask because I have a complicated image computation that takes about 1-2
> hrs to complete.  I would like to view, then save it to file if I like it)
> 
> Along a similar vein, is it possible to alter an image after it has been
> plotted on screen?  That is, first create image, then decide I want a
> different palette of colours, then alter it.  Again, is it possible to do
> without re-executing image()? (In my case, without waiting another 1-2hrs)

Paul Murrell who is just finising up a PhD here has done a lot of
working extending R graphics capabilities.  If I can resist pestering
him for "just that little bit more" we should the work integrated
into R in the next couple of weeks.

These changes will see:

    o	Multiple active devices (eg several X11 windows on screen)
	and the ability to copy between devices.  This will make
	it possible to take snapshots of on-screen graphics
	(using the dev.print() function).

    o	An an "xfig" device driver which will produce plots
	which can be edited by the xfig drawing program.

    o	More flexible layout capabilities.

That said, if your images are as complex as you say the changes above
won't help that much.  I would suggest that you initially decimate your
image and play will color selection on that reduced image before
drawing the final version.

	Ross
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