The status bar can provide important information without interrupting the work flow. You can use the MODEMACRO system variable to display, in the status bar, most data known to the application. With its calculation, decision, and editing facilities you can compose the status bar to your precise specifications.
The calculated value of the MODEMACRO system variable controls the user-defined area on the status bar, leftmost section. As the value of the MODEMACRO system variable changes, the controls on the status bar move to the right. The maximum number of characters displayed on the status bar in the user-defined area is 240. Beyond 240 characters, the text displayed in the status bar is truncated
If you set MODEMACRO to the null string by entering a period (.), the standard status bar is displayed. Its value is not saved.