Set matsize alternative in STATA 16 and above

[Samir Khalil]

Hi everyone,
I am preparing a syntax that includes several hundres of regression models, partly with many interaction terms and therefore large matrix sizes. I test the runnability of my syntax using test data and STATA 18.0 SE, but the final analyses are performed remotely by the data owner using STATA 18.0 BE.

Since STATA ignores the "set matsize" command since Version 16, how can I check whether my code is going to run on BE, without checking each regressions matsize individually?

Thank you very much!

Samir

[Andrew Musau]

help limits

BE edition allows a maximum matsize of 800 \(\times\) 800 and 798 RHS variables (counting factor variable expansion).

[Samir Khalil]

Thanks for your answer. I know about the matsize limits, sorry if my question was not clear. I'm searching for an easy way to check runnability on a BE edition, when using SE. Like a temporary "downgrade" leading to error messages whenever they would appear in BE - and especially with regards to the matsize because that limit is the most likely one to be exceeded in my case. In earlier versions of STATA, this was possible using the "set matsize" command.

Of course it would be possible to check each matsize individually, I was just wondering if there was an easier way, especially due to the high number of matrices of varying sizes I'm planning to create.

[Leonardo Guizzetti]

I think you'll either have to check the matsize manually (are you really that close?) or else find a way to use BE temporarily. Perhaps you can have the data owner perform a test and, if needed, program around those models that fail due to matrix limits. Or have them upgrade to SE to make both of your lives easier.

[Jeff Pitblado (StataCorp)]

You can install Stata/BE to the same place as you installed Stata/SE, and it will run with your Stata/SE license. The last step for installing Stata on Windows states

If you would like to modify your installation or install other editions of Stata, you can run the installer again. It will bring up the Application Maintenance dialog. Check Modify and click on Next. You can then choose the edition or editions of Stata that you would like to add.

[Leonardo Guizzetti]

Thanks Jeff. I didn’t know we could do that.

[Samir Khalil]

Perfect, that's exactly what I was searching for, thank you! Both versions appear to be working simultaneously which is convenient for direct comparisons. Thanks!