While attempting to run a database in excess of 56gb I repeatedly received this error message "ERROR: No disk space is available for the write operation". When working in SAS all procedures take place wherever the temp folder is located, which is true even if you reference a different library with a libname statement. The library is the final resting ground for the data, yet all procedures are performed in that temp folder. The problem I encountered was because my computer's hard drive was ~110 gb and the file was ~56gb. I have a network folder that is 250gb, but first I needed to figure out how to designate that drive for my SAS temp folder.
I was unable to find a solution online, so I wanted to share my ultimate solution.
The temp drive and folder I wished to use was "M:\SAS temp"
1.) Locate the config file called "SASV9.CFG"
1a.) My location was "C:\Program Files\SAS\SASFoundation\9.2\nls\en"
2.) Create a back-up config file, just in case.
3.) Open SASV9.CFG
3a.) Under the warning box, about 5 lines down it states
/*setup the default SAS System user work folder */
3b.) You will want to change this path to wherever you want your new temp file, so it should read:
/*setup the default SAS System user work folder */
-WORK "M:\SAS temp"
4.) Save and close this file
5.) Open sas.exe in "C:\Program Files\SAS\SASFoundation\9.2"
The problem should be solved and all temporary files, including the work library, will now be saved in this location.
A final note, network drives may run significantly slower. Therefore, it may be wise to switch back your temp folder once you have completed running this larger file.
Good Luck!
