System Variables FrameMaker 10

[mrdakota]

I want to edit a system variable and then save it as a new variable. The variable is for the short current date and we have a format we use as an example, 9 Sep 2011. Can this be done?

regards,

[Bob_Niland]

Can't speak to FM10, but FM9 appears to act as Frame always has:

• You can't use most system building blocks in user vars, including all of the date/time syntax.
• You can't use system vars in user vars.
• You can't create new system vars.
• You can't rename system vars.
• You can use date blocks in non-date system vars. It appears to be "current date", but the lack of rename makes it clumsy to use.

So, no, unless an FM10 user can sail in here with happier news.

I just redefine a short date and let it go at that.

[DDarby]

While it is true you cannot create or rename a system variable or use system building blocks in user variables, you CAN edit and modify system variables.

For what you want, modify your Current Date (Short) with these building blocks: <$daynum> <$shortmonthname> <$year>