Copyright: Copyright © 1993-1995  In Touch Software


WinPLOT Contents:
  WinPLOT v1.4 Contents:

The Contents lists Help topics available for WinPLOT.

About:

Installation & Registration:

Data File Format

Operation:

Automated Operation:

Signal Processing:

To learn how to use Help, press F1 or choose Using Help from the Help menu

>>> Use File Print Topic from the Help menu to print the currently selected help topic.

>>> Use Edit Copy from the Help menu to copy the contents of the currently selected help topic.


 WinPLOT - About

WinPLOT Features:

 Interactive operation including Zoom-Pan-Scroll along with point-by-point analysis.

 Cartesian, Polar and LOG scales with up to 16 signals by 32000 samples.

 Customizable line/symbol color, size, type and font with high quality printer and .WMF output.

 High performance - low overhead application suitable for use with data acquisition systems.

 Powerful batch file and DDE command operation language that allows complete control and customization.

 Basic signal processing including: spectral analysis, integration, differentiation and various statistics.

 Easy to use inexpensive system with examples and on-line help.

Focus:

WinPLOT was written out of a need for a simple yet effective 2-D data display and analysis tool for engineers and scientists.  WinPLOT combines some of the best features from an assortment of other more expensive and complicated products into a package that is easy to use and at a very affordable cost.  On the other hand, WinPLOT is not intended for business type presentation or high end graphic visualization systems and thus does not support fancy 3-D pie charts or surface-contour graphics etc.  WinPLOT is however designed to be controlled from an external program or process which allows you freedom to choose your data processing environment.

Shareware:

WinPLOT is a shareware product and thus you are encouraged to copy and distribute this program.  You may not however alter the contents of any file or distribute known passwords.  You are encouraged to use this product for a trial period and see if it suits you needs.  If you find this program worth the reasonable cost then you should register it so that it can continue to be improved.  Your feedback - registration or otherwise - is greatly appreciated.

WinPLOT   Copyright ©1993-1995

Written by:	Paul Woodworth      (CompuServe 75330,746)
In Touch Software
27934 Redwood Glen Rd.
Valencia, CA 91354

See Also:

Version - Features

Warranty

Installation & Registration

Return to:

Contents:


Version - Features
   Version - Features:

Version	Date	Major Additions/improvements

1.4	2/1/95	New high speed (2x to 5x faster) Binary file load/import option.

New Binary file Keywords:

FILE_TYPE, NUM_SIGNALS, NUM_SAMPLES

New Windows API MetaFile based operation.

Drawing is now 2x to 4x faster

Quick Zoom/Draw modes (F7, F8)

New DDE control keyword: ZOOM

.WMF display output to any application

New File load screen now acts also as an editor and build program launcher.

Build configuration settings been added to the options screen.

The file selection filters can now be set and saved to your own file extensions.

Added C program examples to the help file.

Expanded DDE Demo program to demonstrate new features.

Printed Help documentation is now available (See: HELPRINT.EXE)

1.3	9/13/94	Main window can now display axis labeling.

Added adjustable font support

Added interactive signal marker capabilities.

Added Triangle and Diamond symbol markers

Added adjustable maximum number of grid line.

Added adjustable number of display digits.

Signal units can now be displayed in the legend

Fixed out-of-bounds drawing upon zoom

Fixed Polar plotting problems

1.2	8/18/94	New 3-D style user interface.

Added full DDE control capability

Includes example program and source code.

Added interactive menu control keywords:

OPEN_FILE, SAVE, RESTORE, EXIT

REDRAW, RESCALE, AUTO, ACTIVE

Added PRINT keyword setup and control functionality.

Added SYMBOL keywords to the data file: POINT, LINE, COLOR

Added SAMPLE keyword to define X axis

Added new options screen for custom editors and color settings.

Added floating (right-mouse) zoom-pan-scale menu.

Fixed zero threshold and crossing in printout

Added browsing index and icons to help file

1.1	6/10/94	Added DDE Paste Link functionality.

More general data input file format.

Statistics is now based on currently displayed points (zoom-in mode)

Added Multi display naming and positioning capabilities

Added DISPLAY and OPERATION functions to data header.

Display overlap repaint now operates correctly.
Display precision has been increased to 12 digits.

Numerous minor fixes and improvements.

1.0	12/6/93	Fixed printer setup dialog issues.

0.9	11/1/93	Replaced installation software to not require VBRUN300 in source directory

Fixed possible file load error

0.8	10/1/93	Relaxed shareware restrictions

Fixed interactive operation

Improved performance of plotting by 30%

Settings for Active and Symbol size are now saved

Added data header editing capabilities

Added data statistics window.

Added Signal Processing: Spectrum, Integration, Differentiation

Added signal generator selection application

0.7	5/1/93	First public release

Return to:

Contents:


  Installing & Registering WinPLOT

Installation

WinPLOT Files

Limitations

Known Anomalies

Future features

Warranty

Reasons For Registration

Registration Instructions

Registration Form

Questionnaire Form


Installation
  Installation:

This program requires Microsoft Windows 3.1 or above running enhanced mode to operate.

Unfortunately this version does not currently run on Windows NT operating system.

Automatic installation:

WinPLOT can be automatically installed by running the SETUP program on the WinPLOT disk:

From the Program Manager:  <File> <Run>

A:SETUP  or  B:SETUP

Manual installation:

Copy the uncompressed files to any existing directory.

(Note: it is best not to copy the files directly into your DOS or Windows directories)

COPY a:\*.* c:\winplot\

Then move the following files to your windows system directory.

COPY a:\vbrun300.dll 	c:\windows\system\

COPY a:\grid.vbx     	c:\windows\system\

COPY a:\threed.vbx	c:\windows\system\

COPY a:\cmmdlg.dll 	c:\windows\system\

COPY a:\cmdialog.vbx 	c:\windows\system\

Then from any existing window group in the Program Manager press:

menu <File>  item <New>  option <Item>  button <Browse> then select WINPLOT.EXE

See Also:

WinPLOT  Files

Registration

Return to: Installation & Registration


  WinPLOT Files

WinPLOT files: (files copied to your directory of choice)

WINPLOT.HLP	  66 Kb	   The help document you are reading

WINPLOT.EXE	200 Kb	   The Win PLOT Visual Basic program

DATA_EXL.XLS	   Excel data set    (Input to EXCEL)

DATA_EXL.CSV	   Text file data set (Output from EXCEL)

DATA_FFT.BAS*	   BASIC source code example for FFT

DATA_FFT.CSV	   Text file data set (Output from .BAS file)

DATA_BIN.C	   C source code example for a binary file

DATA_BIN.DAT	   Binary file data set (Output from .C program)

DATA_POL.CSV	   Text file data set demonstrating Polar graphs

DATA_LOG.CSV	   Text file data set demonstrating Logarithmic scaling

DDE_DEMO.FRM**	   A example DDE control demonstration program source
DDE_DEMO.EXE	   A example DDE control demonstration program
HELPRINT.EXE	   A small program that will produce a hard copy of the help file.

  *note: these files require a BASIC development system such as MS QBASIC included with MS DOS 5.0.

**note: Requires a VBA compatible environment for operation

System required file: (copied to your system directory if they don't already exist)

Note: these files are supplied from Microsoft or other third party vendors.

VBRUN300.DLL	395 Kb	   Required to run Visual Basic (3.0) programs.

COMMDLG.DLL	  89 Kb	   Required for common dialog functions.

CMDIALOG.VBX	  19 Kb	   Required for common dialog functions.

GRID.VBX	  45 Kb	   Required Visual Basic eXtension for grids.

THREED.VBX	  65 Kb	   Required Visual Basic eXtension 3-D controls.

Install files: (these files will remain on your the installation disk)

SETUP.EXE	The installation program

SETUPKIT.DLL	required for the install program

VER.DLL	required for the install program

Return to: Installation & Registration


Limitations
  Limitations:

Currently only 16 signals per instance can be defined.

Currently only 32767 points per signal can be used.

Log scale is limited to 10 decades.

Signals & Unit names are cut after 12 characters.

Currently single precision is being used, thus a Max. range of data is ≈  ±3E±38

NOTE:  An unregistered copy of WinPLOT is limited to 2 signals at 512 samples and cannot support DDE control operation.

Return to: Installation & Registration

See Also

Known Anomalies

Warranty


Known Anomalies
  Known Anomalies:

When installing WinPLOT under Norton Desktop, a DDE error may occur after initial installation.  Simply select close connection when the error prompt occurs.

During extreme real zoom conditions where only a few signal points are visible on the display the signal can travel outside the selected axis.

The polar Y-axis LOG function returns incorrect results.

Real mode Zoom scaling of Polar plots does not work with mouse:

Scale by setting the actual X and Y bounds

>>> Special Note <<<

With version 1.4 WinPLOT underwent almost a total rewrite.  Because of this there may be some new errors that the previous versions did not have.  WinPLOT v1.4 should contain all the functionality of any previous version (backward compatible).  Please report any errors that you may find other than those listed below.  Your support and help with this matter is very much appreciated.

New Anomalies: v1.4

1) Font size is currently only approximate.

This will be fixed soon.

2) Font names/size may not render correctly:

You can some times Redraw (F5) the plot and it will usually work

Selecting a different font name can help. (Courier New is a safe bet)

Note the real font will be correctly displayed in the status box.

This problem is related to the problem #1

3) There is currently no screen persistence. Any overlapping window will erase the image

Use the View Area (F8) function to do a quick redraw

This will be fixed soon

4) Symbols use the same style as the line for efficiency.

This can cause symbols to look different when line style is non-solid.

(This is a design feature that may change)

5) During extreme Zoom modes in Polar may cause a GPF in the Windows GDI.

A limit will have to be put in place to avoid this situation.

6) This release will not work on Windows NT (32-bit) due to its 16 bit API calls.

A new 32 version will address this limitation

Return to: Installation & Registration

See Also

Limitations

Warranty


Future features
  Features to be added at a later date:

Context sensitive on-line Help:

The current on-line help is not contextually connected to the program

Curve fitting: linear, exp etc. and data display: splines, smoothing etc.

Probably in version v1.5

A 32 bit version of WinPLOT to operate native under Windows NT 3.5 (Daytona) and Windows 95 (Chicago).

Note: This version should be available at the same time as the release of Win95 and VB 4.0

An OLE 2.0 component interface (i.e. Object.Property=Value -and- Object.Method) for data and control.

Note: This interface would most likely replace the current DDE interface.

Example:

Set WinPLOT=CreateObject(WinPLOT)

WinPLOT.Comment=This is just an example

WinPLOT.Signals=Time,Range,Velocity
WinPLOT.Set_X=0,22.3

WinPLOT.Data=YourDataArray()

WinPLOT.Draw

An embedded Visual Basic compatible marco language that would allow WinPLOT to act as a full system.

1) Eliminate the need for any other programming languages.

2) Fully compatible with WinPLOT OLE interface.

3) Support for VBXs and DLLs

MDI based operation allowing signals to be placed separate coordinated windows.  (WinPLOT v2.0)

This will allow operations (scaling, processing etc.) to be applied to individual signals/windows.

>>> Your ideas here - please send them in. <<<

Return to: Installation & Registration

See Also

Warranty


WinPLOT Data Format
  WinPLOT    Data File Format:

WinPLOT data file introduction:

Data File Examples

Data file header details:

WinPLOT data Header: Standard

Special Binary File Keywords

WinPLOT data Header: Special

DADiSP compatibility

Interfacing to other applications:

Math CAD

MAT  LAB

EXCEL

Custom Applications

File generation program examples:

BASIC - ASCII Program Example

BASIC - Binary Program Example

C - ASCII Program Example

C - Binary Program Example


Data File Format
  Data File Format Introduction:

Data for WinPLOT can be imported from an ASCII or Binary file in a row-column format.  At the top of the data file is the ASCII data header.  This data header is very important and is the key to efficient WinPLOT utilization. (See: WinPLOT Data header )  Below the DATA keyword starts the actual ASCII or Binary data.  For an ASCII file, each row (line) represents one set of data points while each column defines each signal.  Each column is separated by a either comma (ASCII 44), tab (ASCII 9) or a series of spaces (ASCII 32) and each line is separated by a carriage return - line feed (ASCII 13 - 10).

Example: Simple file with 2 signals (1st being X-axis) and data 4 samples.

ASCII Text File:   (space character separation)

comment	This is a test of a ASCII data set	<-- comment line (spaces allowed)

signals	range	altitude	<-- define Y names

units	miles	feet	<-- define Y units

samples	time	sec	<-- define X name, unit

DATA	<-- required if header included

1     	23.123	9.99e-099

2    	224.005	8.80e-088

3    	625.701	7.00e-077

4   	1026.409	6.00e-006

Note: At a minimum you must leave space for the sign and a space to separate the numbers. (2 spaces)

Note: No data header is required at all if you wish to accept the default settings.

ASCII Text File:   (comma or tab character separation)

If the columns are separated by commas or tabs then the file is said to be a comma or tab delimited file.  These file formats are very common and can be produced by almost any application.  If the columns are separated by commas it is said to be a Comma Separated Values (.CSV) file.  An advantage of delimited files are that blank or default values can be properly handled. In WinPLOT for example, a blank starting column is allowed in the data for descriptive purposes but is ignored during import.  See: Excel data file example

Example: Comma and Tab delimited data:

DATA	or	DATA

2.00,23.123,999999<crlf>	 	2.00<tab>23.123<tab>999999<crlf>

-1.20,25.7,7000<crlf>	-1.20<tab>25.7<tab>7000<crlf>

2.3e4,26.4,6666<crlf>	2.34e4<tab>26.4<tab>6666<crlf>

Binary  File:   (each data point is a 32 bit single precision number)

Binary files allow for maximum performance which is necessary for very large data sets.  Note that the data header is the same as the one for standard ASCII with the additional required special binary keywords. ( For more information on binary files see: Special Binary File Keywords  )  Immediately after the required DATA keyword and <crlf> characters starts the binary data.

Example:

NUM_SAMPLES=3000<crlf>
NUM_SIGNALS=5<crlf>

FILE_TYPE=BINARY<crlf>
DATA<crlf>
&H%4.....binary misc. characters with no delimiters or <crlf> ............

Return To:  Data File Format


  MathCAD

Data can be imported form MathCAD using the WRITEPRN command.  Note that the PRNCOLWIDTH must be greater that the PRNPRECISION so that the data columns are right justified.  Thus to include the sign (1), the exponent (5) and space (1):

PRNCOLWIDTH >= PRNPRECISION + 7

PRNCOLWIDTH and PRNPRECISION are built-in Variables available under the Math menu.

Return To:  Data File Format


  MATLAB

Data can be imported form MATLAB using the SAVE command.

save file variable /ascii	 	for 8-digit ASCII output

save file variable /ascii /double	for 16-digit ASCII output

where file is the output file name and variable is the MATLAB variable to be output.

Return To:  Data File Format


  EXCEL

Data is imported from EXCEL as a CSV (Comma-Separated Values) file using File Save As. An example of an EXCEL (v. 3.0) file for use in WinPLOT is contained in the file DATAEXCL.XLS.  Note that if the first column is blank it will be ignored automatically.  This blank column allows the data to visually aligned with its data header in Excel.

Example:  An EXCEL .CSV file: (Note comma place holders and blank first column.)

COMMENT,This is an example of an EXCEL data set,,

DATASET,Data Set 1,,

DATE,2/18/93,,

TIME,1:23:45.6789,,

PLOT_TYPE,rectangular,,

OPERATION,,,

SET_Y,-0.3,1.1,

DISPLAY,50,50,400,600

SIGNALS,X,Y1:Sin(X)/X,y2:-diff(Y)

UNITS,sec,feet,feet/sec

DATA,,,

,-6.2832,2.30E-06,-2.30E-06

,-5.8832,-6.62E-02,6.62E-02

,-5.4832,-0.13083,6.46E-02

,-5.0832,-0.18336,5.25E-02

,-4.6832,-0.21344,3.01E-02

,-4.2832,-0.2123,-1.14E-03

...

Return To:  Data File Format


Custom Aplicaitons
  Custom Applications

If you have an application that is not compatible with WinPLOT's data format we can either add its format to WinPLOT (if their are a number of requests for a particular format) or write a simple conversion program for you.  In order for us to work on a compatibility mode or conversion routine we will need the following:

1) Document describing the Application and its file format

2) Some known and documented sample files on a floppy disk

3) Completed registration and questionnaire forms

Questionnaire Form

Registration Form

Return To:  Data File Format


BASIC - ASCII File Example
  BASIC - ASCII Program Example

ASCII CSV file example:

  Open "C:\WINPLOT\DATA.CSV" For Output As #1	' Open your output file

  Print #1, "COMMENT, This is a BASIC generated file"

  Print #1, "SIGNALS, sin(3x), cos(x), x/10, sqr(x)/2"

  Print #1, "DATA"

  For x = -1.5 To 5 Step .01	' Define X range and resolution

    Print #1, x; ","; 	' output X axis

    Print #1, Sin(3 * x); ",";	' Y1

    Print #1,  .5 * Cos(x); ",";	' Y2

    Print #1, x / 10; ",";	' Y3

    Print #1, Sqr(Abs(x)) / 2	' Y4  Note: last signal has no ';",";'

  Next x

  Close #1

Note: This example will operate in Microsoft QBASIC which is included in MS DOS 5.0 and above.

See Also: Basic - Binary File Example

Return To:  Data File Format


Basic - Binary File Example
 BASIC - Binary Program Example

Binary file example:

  Kill "C:\WINPLOT\DATA_BIN.DAT"

  Open "C:\WINPLOT\DATA_BIN.DAT" For Binary As #1	 Open your binary output file

  Dim y as Single, n as Integer
  Dim t$, cr$

  cr$= chr$(13)+ chr$(10)

  t$="COMMENT This is a binary file"+cr$	 note that cr$ is required to act like

  Put #1,,t$	 a string in a binary file

  t$="FILE_TYPE=binary"+cr$: Put #1,,t$

  t$="NUM_SAMPLES=200"+cr$: Put #1,,t$

  t$="NUM_SIGNALS=2"+cr$: Put #1,,t$	 note that there are 2 signals because of

  t$="INTERVAL=.001 +cr$:Put #1,,t$	 the INTERVAL keyword defines the X-axis.

  t$="DATA"+cr$: Put #1,,t$

  For n = 1 To 200

    y= sin(n/10): Put #1,,y	 note that because y is declared as Single

    y= Sqr(Abs(n)) / 20: Put #1,,y	 it forces the output to become Single

  Next n

  Close #1

See Also: BASIC - ASCII File Generation

Return To:  Data File Format


  C - ASCII Program Example

Below is an example of a C program that writes to a WinPLOT compatible ASCII file format.

#include <stdio.h> 	// include file for files and I/O operations

#include <math.h>	// include file for math functions

void main ()

{

FILE *stream;

char c;

int i;

float x,y;

stream=fopen ("data_cpp.csv","w"); 	// open the file in ASCII 'w'rite mode

fprintf(stream,"Comment This is a example of a ASCII file\n",c);

fprintf(stream,"DATA\n",c);

for (i=0;i<30;i++)

{

x=(float)i/5;

y=cos(x);

fprintf(stream,"%g,%g\n",x,y);	// output ASCII formatted x,y<crlf>

}

fclose (stream);

}

See Also: BASIC - ASCII File Generation

Return To:  Data File Format


  C - Binary Program Example

Below is an example of a C program that writes to a WinPLOT compatible Binary file format.  The important difference between the ASCII C example is the use of wb in the fopen function.  Note the use of \r\n with the fprintf to force an ASCII data header and the use of pointers to addresses in the fwrite function to make the binary data stream.

#include <stdio.h>	// include file for files and I/O operations

#include <math.h>	// include file for math functions

void main ()

{

FILE *stream;

char c;

int i;

float x,y;

float d[20][2];

int x1; int x2;

// open the file in write binary mode

stream=fopen ("data_cpp.csv","wb);

fprintf(stream,"Comment This is a example of a Binary file\r\n",c);

fprintf(stream,"FILE_TYPE=Binary\r\n",c);

fprintf(stream,"NUM_SAMPS=30\r\n",c);

fprintf(stream,"NUM_SIGS=1\r\n",c);	// there only one Y-axis signal

fprintf(stream,"DATA\r\n",c);

for (i=0;i<30;i++)

{

x=(float)i/5;

y=cos(x);

// output 1 memory contents of x (4 bytes)

fwrite((void*)&x,4,1,stream);

fwrite((void*)&y,4,1,stream);

}

fclose (stream);

}

See Also: BASIC - ASCII File Generation

Return To:  Data File Format


  WinPLOT Data Header

The data header in WinPLOT is used to specify all important aspects of your signal drawing, analysis and control. It is therefore very important to fully understand each of the possible functions and options.  The basic Keywords and their functionality are listed below.  In addition to these keywords, there are three other topics of importance:

Basic Keyword rules 	See: Keyword Notes

Special control Keywords  	See: Special Control Keywords

Binary data requirements 	See: Special Binary File Keywords

Keyword	Example-Item(s)	Default-Item(s)	Description

COMMENT	This is a comment	-none-	General comment (spaces allowed)

DATE	11/10/62	(today)	Date stamp

TIME	10:50:00	(now)	Time stamp

DATASET	Test# 107-A 	current file name	Shown in WinPLOT title bar (no '.' char allowed)

PLOT_TYPE	polar, legend	last saved settings	Set plot type, view mode,  grid (on/off)

OPERATION	spectrum	-none-	Data Operations before plotting

SET_X	0, 6.28	auto scaling	Set X axis start, end and type.

SET_Y	-10, 10, log	auto scaling	Set Y axis start, end and type

SIGNAL[S]	Range, Pressure...	signal_1, signal_2...	Define signal names

UNIT[S]	Miles, PSI,...	-none-	Define signal units.

SAMPLE[S]	Time, sec, 200	samples, sec, count	Define sample (X-axis) name, units, samples

INTERVAL**	0.01,5	1,0	Sample interval, offset (auto generated X-axis)

SYMB_POINT	cross, circle, point ...	last saved settings	Define signal symbol point type

SYMB_LINE	solid, dot, dash, ...	last saved settings	Define signal line type

SYMB_COLOR	red, blue, green , ...	last saved settings	Define signal color

DISPLAY	0,0,500,300	`	last saved settings	Display Top,Left,Width,Height in pixels

DATA	-none-	-none-	Keyword DATA required for the header

**   >>> Important Note: <<<
If the INTERVAL keyword is present then WinPLOT will automatically generate the X-axis (sample).  If this keyword is not present then WinPLOT will use the first data column as the X-axis.

See Also

ASCII File Format Examples

Return To:  Data File Format


  Keyword Notes

Below is a list of rules that must be followed in order to properly specify data header Keywords.

Rules:

Keywords must start in the first column.

Keywords and items are not case sensitive.

Blank lines are allowed before the DATA keyword.

Lines can be commented out with the following characters: <;> <,> <> or <tab>

Keywords are not order dependent except for keyword DATA just before first line of data.

Keyword Items are order dependent.

Not specifying a keyword or item causes the default or current setting to be used.

Keywords and items can be separated by commas, tabs or spaces.

Commas and tabs can be used as place holders - spaces cannot

Do not use spaces or commas in individual item names, except for the COMMENT and DATASET line.

Do not mix spaces and commas or tabs on the same line since a comma or tab has higher priority than a space.

Do not use the '=' character except for the first delimiter. For example: SET_X=-1.3,6.28
The characters [ ] denotes optional full keyword text.

Correct Examples:

SET_X=0.3 , 6.28 , log

SET_X  0.3   6.28

Incorrect Examples:

SET_X  0.3 , 6.28	<-- comma has higher priority than a space

SET_X= log	<-- LOG item must be 3rd position - use commas to delimit

See Also

WinPLOT Data Header

Return To:  Data File Format


  Special Binary File Keywords

In ASCII mode WinPLOT can automatically determine the number of rows (samples) and columns (signals).  In binary files, since there are no data delimiters, the data header must contain a count of the number of expected data signals and samples.  Note that the because the header is written in ASCII it can be normally processed before the binary data.

Advantage to binary data files is that they offer significantly faster (3x to 6x) loading and are dramatically smaller in file size (3x to 5x).  Binary data files therefore become more important as the amount of data increases.  Please note that binary files can not be used for example with EXCEL or DDE since they do not directly support binary operations.

The following Keywords are required for binary data files.

Keyword	Example-Item	Default-Item	Description

FILE_TYPE	BINARY	ASCII	required to notify for binary data

NUM_SAMP[LES]	3000	-none-	the number of rows (samples) of data

NUM_SIG[NALS]	2	-none-	the number of columns (signals) of data

Note: The SAMPLES keyword also has a item that can be used to determine the number of samples.  The NUM_SAMPLES sample count is used instead of the SAMPLES count item if one is specified.

Intel Binary data format:

Binary data cannot necessarily be shared across computer systems due to the way different architecture represent binary data.  Also be careful and note that you cannot necessarily edit a binary data file unless the editor is specially designed for binary. (i.e. a Hex Editor)  Luckily the Windows Write program will accept a large binary file - this application is handy if you want to edit the ASCII header and then resave the file.

The binary data must be IEEE floating-point standard for single precision data.  A Single precision variable in WinPLOT (BASIC) is equivalent to float in C and a REAL*4 in FORTRAN

Bit layout: Bit 31 is sign, bits 30-23 are the exponent, and bits 22-0 are the mantissa.

Example: The number 2.0 is represented by:  00 00 C0 3F.

See Also

WinPLOT Data Header

Return To:  Data File Format


  Special Control keywords

Special Control Keywords:

The following keywords are special control functions which are typically only used during automated control.  Most of these keywords provide functionality that is normally provided through the menu or user interface.  Many of these control keywords are also unnecessary during standard file load operation because they automatically occur as part of the process.

Keyword	Example-Item	Default-Item	Description

OPEN_FILE	data_exl.csv	-none-	allows file to be loaded via DDE

PRINT	3,5	last saved settings	Print height, width, center, LineWidth,B&W
EXIT**	-none-	-none-	terminates WinPLOT

RESET	-none-	-none-	Resets and clears

SAVE	-none-	-none-	Saves current settings

RESTORE	-none-	-none-	Restores last saved setting

REDRAW	-none-	-none-	Forces redraw

RESCALE	-none-	-none-	Rescale X and Y axis

AUTO	on/off	current setting	Set Auto Redraw option on/off

ACTIVE	on/off	current setting	Set interactive option on/off

MARKER	64,1,set	1,1	Sets the display marker: Sample, Signal, Marker

ZOOM	in, view	-none-	Allows Zoom in or out and sets redrawmode.

**  The EXIT command item will cause WinPLOT to close itself (Exit) after performing specified actions.  This is typically only used with the PRINT function to allow end-to-end command line operation.

See Also

Automated Control:

WinPLOT Data Header

Return To:  Data File Format


DADISP Header Compatibility
  File Compatibility with DADiSP:

WinPLOT data files are somewhat compatible with the high end DADiSP program by DSP Development Corporation. The DADiSP data file format is based on a sample based input, thus, the X-axis (signal) is generated during import.  WinPLOT can support both a user specified X-axis or a sample based X-axis.  The key word INTERVAL tells WinPLOT that the X-axis is to be sample generated.  Note that none of the WinPLOT control keywords are compatible with DADiSP.

Supported (Compatible)

COMMENT	General comment

DATE	Date stamp

TIME	Time stamp

DATASET	Data set name - shown in WinPLOT title bar

SIGNAL[S]	Define signal names.

VERT_UNITS	Define the Y-axis signal units. (See keyword UNITS)

HORZ_UNITS	Defines the X-axis for sample based unit. (See keyword SAMPLE)

INTERVAL	If this line exists then WinPLOT will add a X sample based signal (0)	WinPLOT also will support an offset value if one is specified.

FILE_TYPE	Used to determine ASCII or Binary file data formats

NUM_SIGS	Determined automatically for ASCII, must be stated for Binary

NUM_SAMPS	Determined automatically for ASCII (optional), must be stated for Binary

(See keyword SAMPLE)

DATA	Required if header is included

Not Supported = ignored by WinPLOT

VERSION	Version numbers are not used

DATA_TYPE	Data in binary format is always single precision

SAMPLE_RATE	Use INTERVAL (INTERVAL=1/SAMPLE_RATE)

CHAN_NAME	Use SIGNAL keyword

STORAGE_MODE	Storage mode is always INTERLACED

New - WinPLOT only

SET_X	Set X axis start, end and type.

SET_Y	Set Y axis start, end and type

PRINT	Cause a automatic printout

SYMB_POINT	Define signal symbol point type

SYMB_LINE	Define signal line type

SYMB_COLOR	Define signal color

PLOT_TYPE	Set plot type

OPERATION	Data operations

DISPLAY	Position and size of current display

SAMPLES	Define X-axis: name, units, and # samples (See HORT_UNITS)

UNITS	Define Y-axis units (See VERT_UNITS)

Menu & Control ...	All menu and command related keywords

Example of a DADISP and WinPLOT compatible file:

SIGNAL     sin5 sin8

VERT_UNITS 5sin 8sin

HORZ_UNITS sec

NUM_SIGS   2

INTERVAL   0.025

DATA

 .7071068 , .9510565

 1 , .5877852

...

Return To:  Data File Format


  WinPLOT   Operation:

Below is the WinPLOT menu layout.  Many operations are also available via the keyboard or mouse (See Active keyboard & Mouse operation  )

File:	Data:	Type:	Display:

Open File... (F2)		Paste Link (F4) ±		Rectangular ±		Redraw Now (F5)
New Session ...		Statistics ...		Histo Bar ±		Rescale Now (F6)
Print Plot ...		Header ...		Polar Angle ±		View Redraw (F7) ±
Save As Metafile ...		Spectrum		X Log ±		View Area (F8) »
Save Settings		Integrate		Y Log ±		Auto Redraw  (F9) ±
Restore Settings		Differentiate				Active (F11) ±
Options ... (F3)						Set X & Y
Exit						Symbols... (F12)
				Right Mouse
				Zoom In
				Pan Out
				Rescale
				Set Marker
				Close

±   = toggle (on/off)

...  = opens screen

»   = menu options

(Fx) = F function keys (note F1=Help)

Note: Most operations can be aborted by pressing the Escape key (Esc).
Some operations may not be apparent until after redrawing (F5)

See Also:

Running (Starting) WinPLOT

Performance Considerations


  Running WinPLOT

WinPLOT is run (started) by simply double clicking on the WinPLOT icon.

Alternatively you can pass WinPLOT a data file to load from the command line:

WINPLOT filename caption

Where WINPLOT is the WINPLOT.EXE application and filename is the file to load - including path if necessary and caption is the caption title that will become part of the application title.  Note that either parameter is optional but must be in the order shown.  This feature allows multiple WinPLOT instance operation and control.  To utilize this option under the Windows File Manager you should use File Associate under the Windows Program Manager.  This will allow you to invoke WinPLOT for particular data file  extensions.

Note:	The filename must have a period '.' character in it while the caption must not have a '.'.

The caption must be surrounded by single quote characters as shown.

NOTE: 	When you first run WinPLOT it will initialize itself with your operation system which will generate a unique 3 digit installation number.  To register your copy see the Registration section

Keywords: -none-

Save/Restore: -none-

Return to: Operation


  Performance Considerations

Here is a list of performance tradeoffs that should be considered when running WinPLOT.

Item	Faster	Slower	Comment

NUM_SIGNALS	fewer	more	Consider removing unused/unnecessary signals.

NUM_SAMPLES	fewer	more	Consider using only relevant data samples and
avoid oversampling.

SYMBOL_TYPE	-none-	Diamond	Drawing symbols is very time consuming.

FILE_TYPE	Binary	ASCII	Binary files can be up to 5 times faster loading 	then its ASCII equivalent.  For ASCII files use 	delimiters instead of spaces.

Break Points	1	many	To many break points will unnecessarily slow 	down small files.

Wide line width	1	5	Lines with a width >1 has significantly slower 	API drawing speeds.
DDE	Binary File	DDE	DDE is significantly shower than even a ASCII 	file.  Consider using the OPEN_FILE and other 	control 	keyword with DDE to open a data file.

Auto Redraw	off	on	Turning off Auto Redraw will avoid unnecessary 	intermediate redrawing.  Use Redraw Now (F5) 	key to update display.

Return to: Operation


Loading a data file
  Loading a Data File: (F2)

This screen allows you to select files for either Loading, Editing or Building.

Load: 	Loads the selected file into WinPLOT for data analysis/plotting. (Default)

Edit:	Sends commands to load the selected file into the editor of your choice

Build:	Sends commands to load the selected file into the program editor/compiler

of your choice.

To help in selecting your files there are filter options that can be selected.  The first three filter option are programmable and are set by double clicking on them.  The three filters for Loading and Editing are separate from Building and thus can be set to different file extensions.  These settings along with their command string options are saved during a Save Settings.

File loading is always selected as the default screen upon entry.  The screen is always redrawn after the file is loaded regardless of the state of the Auto Redraw setting.

Abort Loading

During a file load you can stop the process by pressing the Escape key (Esc).

Keywords: -none-

DDE Control: OPEN_FILE

Save/Restore: Last valid File Name

Return to: Operation


Multiple WinPLOT sessions
  Multiple WinPLOT sessions:

To view multiple data sets simply run another session of WinPLOT.  Windows supports as many instances of any program until system resources run out.

The first instance if WinPLOT is labeled:	WinPLOT - 1

The next instance is labeled:	WinPLOT - 2

and so on ...

If you specify a caption title the application title will become: WinPLOT - Your Title Here

If you do not specify a title, alter you load a data file the title will become: WinPLOT - filename.ext

Note: 	Unregistered WinPLOT users will get a instance label of:   WinPLOT - unregistered

Keywords: -none-

Save/Restore: -none-

Return to: Operation


Printing
  Printing:

WinPLOT uses the print drivers available under Windows, thus the printout will be at the highest possible resolution or your printer.  Select the width and height of your plot area in inches - this size will include all titles and Legends etc.  Note that the current page orientation and size is displayed in the status box.

LineWidth	Allows a wider solid line to be printed so it stands out from the grid.

Use symbols to differentiate your signals in this case.

Black&White	This options converts all colors into black.

Center Plot	Center the plot otherwise defaulted to the upper left corner.

Note: Information about the data set can also be printed from the Data Statistics window.
A screen dump of can be obtained by pressing the Print Screen key which sends the image to the computers clipboard.  Use Paint Brush or other application to adjust/trim the image for printing.

Keywords: PRINT  [Height],[Width],[Center],[Line Width],[Black & White]

Save/Restore: All print related items

Return to: Operation


  Save As Metafile

WinPLOT will save the current display as a Windows Metafile (.WMF) which can be used with most any application that supports vector graphics.  Note that the file can only be scaled by real X and Y scaling and will not be scaled by apparent view scaling. To get the desired output make sure the View Redraw option (mode=R) is set and then simply set the X and Y values as needed.  The output file will include data, axis and legend.  Note also that the actual physical scaling of this file is arbitrary and is thus determined by the application.

Tricks:  (outside of WinPLOT)

Some times the file will appear distorted upon first importing.  This can be sometimes be easily fixed by resizing the plot to its original physical size before any editing.  Out of proportion fonts can also be fixed by selecting the items and then changing the fonts as a group until they are correctly proportioned.

Note: The default is to name of the file the same as the data file with the *.WMF extension.

Keywords: -none-

Save/Restore: Path and File

Return to: Operation


Save Settings
  Save & Restore settings:

The Save Settings menu item will save the following current settings:

Path, file, file extension

Active mode  on/off

Auto-redraw  on/off

View Redraw Mode on/off

View Area (data, grid, legend)

Plot type

X, Y  log/lin

Polar Axis on/off **

Grid  on/off

Max. # of grid lines **

Symbol & line size, style, type and color

Display location and size

Display Break Point division **

Printout size and style

Editor name and options **

Program editor name and options **

Screen and grid colors **

Font name and size **

The Restore Settings will restore the above settings to their last saved values.

NOTE: 	All items (except those marked with **) will be superseded if they are specified in the data file header (Default data header items do not override current settings.)

The following items are not saved and are thus cleared and defaulted for each file load.

Item	Default

COMMENT	-none-

DATE	Today

TIME	Now

DATASET	FileName.Ext

SET_X,Y	MAX and MIN values

SIGNALS	Signal_1, Signal_2, ...

SAMPLES	samples

UNITS	-none-

INTERVAL	1, offset=0

OPERATION	off

PRINT	off

EXIT	off

Keywords:  SAVE, RESTORE, RESET

Save/Restore:  See Above

Return to: Operation


Options
  Options:

Below are all the options that are available under the Options screen.  Options are adjustable items that are do not have dynamic Keyword control capability.  These options are saved during a Save Settings.

Data File Editor and Data File Builder 	(Text Box)

These options allows you to specify an editor and program application of you choice when selecting either Edit or Build from the File Load screen.  Note: Your application must be able to accept the file name from the command line.

For Example:	WRITE.EXE  filename.ext

or

QBASIC.EXE  filename.ext

The send keys is optional unless you need to send keystrokes to you Windows application after is has started.

Special keyboard commands need to be enclosed in {} for example: {ENTER}  or {F5} and the following are special control keys: %=Alt, ^=Control, +=Shift

For example: The WRITE application requires a n key to be sent to bypass a file conversion question.

Grid Color	(Combo Box)

Specify the grid color

Background Color	(Combo Box)

Specify the plot background color

Note: These background colors are set to be not as dark as the same color for the signal to insure that the signal can always be visible even if its color is the same as that of the background.

Line & Marker Width	(Text Box)

These settings will allow the objects to be drawn a thicker (bold) manner.  Note that however, all lines >1 will appear as solid lines only - this is a function of the Windows API.

# Break Points	(Text Box)

This controls the number of times (per signal) that the keyboard is checked for user aborts and how often the display status is updated.  Entering a high number will unnecessarily show down the performance for small files.  A good (default) number is 10. During a display break the user also can issue a cancel operation by pressing the Escape (Esc) key.

Legend Units	(Check Box)

Determines whether the legend signal names will also display their units.

Polar Axis	(Check Box)

Determines whether the polar plot will have degrees displayed along the radial axis.

Marker Key	(Text Box)

This options allows you to specify which key is used for marker interaction.  Below is a list of possible some key IDs - any code is possible but dont enter a key which is already used by other functions.

Key	# Code

Enter	13

Key pad 5	12

Pause	19

Num Lock	144

Scroll Lock	145

Font Name & Size	(Combo Box)

This controls the font name and font size used universally by the system - including the printout.  After changing the font size make sure the fontname is still acceptable by reselecting it again.  If this font-size combination cannot be generated by the system an error message will be given.

# Display Digits	(Text Box)

This controls the number of digits that are displayed before rounding.  You can go as low as 5 but the number of digits in your data must stay below this for proper operation.  Above 14 digits is beyond single precision and is of no use.  A good range of numbers is between 9 and 14.  Note that the axis labeling has 2 digits less than the number of display digits.

Max # of Grid Lines	(Text Box)

This controls the maximum number of grid lines that will appear on either the X or Y axis in linear axis scaling modes.

Keywords: -none-  Options are not Keyword controllable.

Save/Restore:  Last set/saved

Return to: Operation


Editing a Data File
  Editing a Data File:

This will open the current file and place it into the application which has been specified in the options screen.  Make sure when you save the file your editor does not convert the format of file.  If you have made changes to the file you must then reload (F2) the file to view the results.

If the 'data file' is via a DDE Paste Link connection you can still view a data snapshot but all changes must, of course, be made at the DDE data source.

Keywords: -none-

Save/Restore: -none-

Return to: Operation


DDE Paste Link
  DDE Paste Link: (F4)

DDE works in the same way a regular file would except the data is transferred via the computers clipboard directly from the data source application.  The added benefit of using DDE is that WinPLOT will automatically respond to any changes to this linked data.

From the data source application select the area/report for output (DDE) and then select Edit - Copy.  If the application is DDE compatible, this will place a data message in the clipboard.  Then from WinPLOT select Data - Paste Link.

The simplest example of a DDE compatible application is EXCEL.  You can use the DATA_EXL.XLS file provided for an example.

Note that the DDE link with WinPLOT is 'Automatic' if the display Auto Redraw  is on. In this mode any change to the data at the source will cause WinPLOT to respond by redrawing the display.  To stop WinPLOT from constantly redrawing set the display Auto Redraw  off.

To terminate the link simply select Data - Paste Link again or close the connecting application.

Note: DDE data sets are limited to 64k of ASCII data and they will be slower loading than a file.

Keywords: AUTO

Save/Restore: -none-

Return to: Operation


Data Information
  Data Information:

Information (Statistics) on the current data set is displayed.  Note that the information is based on the current 'X' range of samples displayed.

current data file

# of signals

# of samples

--- for each signal ---

Max.

Average

Min

Zero crossings:	sample # 	X intercept value

Local extreme:	sample #	Y value

Keywords: -none-

Save/Restore: -none-

Return to: Operation


Data Header Information
  Data Header Edit:

The data header editor allow you to edit various data header information.  Typically this information comes from the data header or is set to default values.  This screen allows you to change default values or correct any existing entries.

Comment:
Dataset Name
Date & Time

For each signal:  Signal	Name	Units

Keywords: COMMENT, DATASET, DATE, TIME, SIGNALS, UNITS, SAMPLE

Save/Restore: -none-

Return to: Operation


Plot Types
  Plot Types:

There are essentially three different ways to view data in WinPLOT:

1. Rectangular:

   A rectangular is a standard Cartesian X,Y plot

2. Histogram:

   A histogram is a stick (bar) chart. x,h

3. Polar:

A polar plot is a amplitude (r) angle (θ) display.  The "X" (θ) data must be between 0 (0 deg) and 2π (360 deg) or the plot will wrap around itself.  For a POLAR plot the angular displacement(θ) is marked in 10° divisions while the magnitude (r) is displayed as either Linear or Log scaling as shown above.  If the polar axis option is selected the radial degrees will be marked in 30 degree increments.

Keywords: PLOT_TYPE=[RECT][HIST][POLAR], [data][axis][legend], [grid][nogrid]

Save/Restore: last set/saved

Return to: Operation


Log Scaling
  Log Scaling:

WinPLOT can scale either axis in a linear or logarithmic scale independently. WinPLOT will automatically adjust the axis labeling based on the available grid position, font size and plot size combinations. Note that in POLAR you cannot select a Y-log option.

Linear Scaling:

The spacing will automatically adjusted the nearest integer or fractional number and will offset from the 0,0 origin.  The maximum number of grid lines can be set via the Max # of Grid Lines on the options screen.

Log Scaling:

WinPLOT will always display 10 lines per decade for a log scale. Note that there is a limit of 10 decades for Log scaling.  If the data contains zero or  negative numbers then WinPLOT will choose a positive number (one of the axis) and then display 10 decades.  A warning message will be displayed if this occurs.  To fix this situation, press Rescale Now (F6) while in LOG scaling mode.

Note: The Log scale setting remains in effect until it is explicitly removed.  This can cause an error message if the following signal set contains any non-logarithmic (i.e. <=0) numbers.

Keyword/Item: SET_X, SET_Y = ,,[LOG][LIN]

Save/Restore: last set/saved

Return to: Operation


Display Manual Redraw
  Manual Redraw: (F5)

Forces a redrawing of the display.  Redrawing guaranties correct proportions by completely recreating the image.  This function is necessary if the Auto Redraw  option is turned off.  Redrawing is also necessary if you wish to change the real scaling of your view.

During drawing you can stop further drawing by pressing the period key .

Keywords:  REDRAW

Save/Restore: -none-

Return to: Operation


Display Rescale to fit
  Rescale: (F6)

Forces a automatic rescale of the display axis to encompass the entire domain and range of the data.

Alternatively the plot area can be scaled in other ways:

1) Specify the X or Y values in the data header.

2) Manually change the X or Y values in the plot. (`~ key)

3) Use the mouse to select the area to view (Zooming).

4) Use the keyboard to Zoom-in or Pan-out about various areas.

5) Use the right mouse button menu on the current point.

Note: When using the right mouse rescale option the plot will rescale to the currently selected signal set.

Keywords: SET_X, SET_Y, RESCALE

Save/Restore: -none-

Return to: Operation


View Redraw
  View Redraw Mode: (F7)

Real View:

If the View Redraw option is set then depending on the setting of Auto Redraw the plot will be redrawn on any change of view.  This option forces accurate axis rescaling and redrawing in any view.  This is also the mode in which any printouts and .WMF output are based.  Either a R or M will appear in the mode window.

Apparent View:

If the View Redraw option of off then any change of view will only change the apparent view of the plot.  This acts like a looking glass and does not change the actual real scaling.  This mode of operation allows quick Zooming and Panning.  Note that during significant rescaling in this mode can cause distortion especially with the fonts.  Also during Zooming lines may become thick and solid - this is a feature of the Windows API.  You can return to your original scaling by selecting a new View Area (F8) or by selecting Redraw Now (F5)  During this mode a V will appear in the mode window.

Note that the Ctrl and Alt keyboard ^v<> Zoom and Scroll only apparent views.

Keyword: ZOOM = [in][out][data][axis][legend], [real][view]

Save/Restore: last set/saved

Return to: Operation


View Area
  View Area:  (F8)

The View Area sets the apparent viewport to select the following:

1) Data only	[DATA]

2) Data and Axis	[AXIS]

3) Data, Axis and Legend	[LEGEND]

Pressing F8 will toggle through the view areas.  This function can also be used reset the viewport after Zooming or Panning about the display without occurring a total redraw.

Keyword: PLOT_TYPE= plot_type, [DATA][AXIS][LEGEND]  or

    ZOOM= [IN][OUT][DATA][AXIS][LEGEND], [real][view]

Save/Restore: last set/saved

Return to: Operation


Auto Redraw
  Auto Redraw Mode (F9)

Setting Auto Redraw on will insure that the display is always up-to-date with any changes.  A R will appear in the mode window if Auto Redraw is on and a M (Manual) will appear if it is off.

The following changes will force a redrawing of the display:

1) Changing the data
2) Changing the plot type or axis types
3) Changing the symbols or grid options
4) Changing the size of the display **

** Note that for many cases Auto Redraw only takes effect if View Redraw is set.

Turning off the Auto Redraw option can be used to save considerable time if you have a very large data set and you are making multiple changes to the display.

Keywords: AUTO=on/off

Save/Restore: last set/saved

Return to: Operation


Active Display
  Active Display Mode (F11)

NOTE: 	To use interactive investigation of the data points, the Display must be Active.

For key operation the plot must have the focus.  To set the focus simply click on the plot area.  For standard file input the plot will automatically have the focus after drawing, however, in DDE mode the focus will remain with the data source.  The mode status window will be blank if the display is inactive.

Operation	Key	Mouse

Next signal set	<Up arrow>	left click close to signal set

Previous signal set	<Down arrow>	left click close to signal set

Previous data point	<Left arrow>	move mouse to the left

Next data point	<Right arrow>	move mouse to the right

Previous (#samp/10)	<Page Up>	move mouse to the left

Next (#samp/10)	<Page Down>	move mouse to the right

First data point	<Home>	move mouse to the left

Last data point	<End>	move mouse to the right

Zoom in about current point	<Insert>	right mouse click -or- drag mouse across area

Pan back form current point	<Delete>	right mouse click

Display X & Y axis input	<`>	right mouse click next to axis corner

Set marker	<programmable option>	right mouse click

Zoom in,out Y View	<Ctrl><Up arrow>, <Ctrl><Down arrow>

Zoom in,out X View	<Ctrl><Right arrow>, <Ctrl><Left arrow>

Slide Y Up, Down	<Alt><Up arrow>, <Alt><Down arrow>

Slide X Right, Left	<Alt><Right arrow>, <Alt><Left arrow>

Keywords: ACTIVE

Save/Restore: last set/saved

Return to: Operation


  Set X & Y limits

The upper and lower X and Y limits can be set manually.  When this function is selected (keyboard = ~)  four gray input boxes will appear along the axis corners.  Update the desired limits and then redraw (F5) the plot.  Pressing the auto-rescale (F6) will reset these values to their max. limits of the data.

The SET_X or SET_Y commands will always default to auto and non-log scaling.  For instance the following command SET_X= ,33.3 will auto scale the lower X limit, set the upper limit to 33.3 and set X axis Log scaling off.

Keywords: SET_X, SET_Y  =  [lower], [upper], [log]

Save/Restore: Log setting

Return to: Operation


Symbols
  Symbols: (F12)

Data point Symbols, Line styles, and Colors:

The data points can be seen by setting their symbol types.  Available symbol types are:

Symbol:	# cmds

Square	#	1	 a fast API call

Circle	o	1	 a slow API call

Triangle ^	3

Diamond >	4

Cross	+	2

Mark	x	2

Point	.	1	 use -none-

-none-	0

Note: The physical size of the symbol depends on the physical size of the X-axis, however, the relative symbol sizes can be selected as small, medium or large.  Drawing symbols takes processing time - the Diamond symbol is the worst since it takes four drawing commands to construct.  For very large data sets you might consider turning off the symbols (-none-) for speed.

Keyword: SYMB_POINT

The lines can be differentiated by line styles.  Available line types are:

 	Solid	_______

Dash	_ _ _ _ _

Dot	.............

Dash_Dot	_ . _ . _ .

Dash_Dot_Dot	_ .. _ .. _

-none-

Note that if the data points are sufficiently close to each other then the line will appear as a solid line.  During significant zoom all lines will become thick and solid - a feature of the Windows API.

Keyword: SYMB_LINE

The symbol and line colors can be selected.  Available colors are:

Black

Blue

Brown

Green

Orange

Red

Purple

Yellow

White

Gray

Display Grid (Check Box)

Controls whether or not grid lines will appear in the data region.

Keyword: SYMB_COLOR, SYMB_LINE, SYMB_POINT

    PLOT_TYPE= plot_type, view_area, [GRID][NOGRID]

Save/Restore: last set/saved

Return to: Operation


  Signal Markers

The marker function allows you to measure the relative difference between any two data points.

Start the operation by placing the marker on the desired fixed reference point and then press (Right mouse) Set Marker or the appropriate key.  As you move the current marker about, WinPLOT will display a line between the two signal points and the status will show the X and Y difference (current point - fixed marker point) between the two points.  To remove the marker function simply select the Set Marker function again.

Note: The marker hot key can be set to any available key in the Options  screen.
The display must be Active  for this option.

Keywords: MARKER

Save/Restore: marker key

Return to: Operation


Automated Control
  Automated Control:

WinPLOT is designed operate as a standalone application or it can be automatically controlled by other applications.  This feature allows WinPLOT to be used as a graphics display and signal analysis tool for Automated Test Equipment (ATE).

There are four basic approaches to sending data and control to WinPLOT.

Method:	Requires:

1) Command line operation  	(nothing)

2) DDE Paste Link Data 	Most any application that supports Cut & Paste Link.

3) Send Keys commands 	Some sort of macro recorder or application

4) DDE Data and Control 	Programming language/application that supports DDE

See: Dynamic Data Exchange & WinPLOT

Return to: Contents:


  Command line operation

As discussed in other sections WinPLOT can be activated and passed a data file parameter and a title parameter.(See: Running WinPLOT  )  This allows basic end-to-end one pass operation of WinPLOT.

The following is a summary of data file Keywords that are most involved in controlling WinPLOT. (See WinPLOT data header   and Special Control Keywords  for a list of all the Keywords.

PLOT_TYPE	This instructs WinPLOT to plot data in a prescribed format.
Format: [RECTangular][HISTogram][POLAR], [DATA][AXIS][LEGEND], [][NOGRID]
Default: last set/saved

OPERATION	This instructs WinPLOT to perform a data operation before plotting
Format: [SPECtrum][INTEGrate][DIFFerentiate]
Default:	no operation

DISPLAY	This instructs WinPLOT to display itself in a specified region on the screen.
Format:	 Top, Left, Width, Height (in pixels starting from the Upper Left corner)
Note: 	The Height and Width are optional
Default: Current display position and size

Entering DISPLAY=MAX will force the display to be full screen.
Entering DISPLAY=X,Y,MIN will force the display smallest possible screen at X,Y
Entering DISPLAY=ICON will force the display to become iconified.

PRINT	This instructs WinPLOT to generate a printout to the current print device.
Format: Height, Width, Center, Line Width, Black & White only

EXIT	This instructs WinPLOT to terminate operation after completing all requested functions.
This would typically only be used with the PRINT command to allow end-to-end command line operation.

Note: A default does not override a current setting

Return to: Automated Control


  DDE Paste Link

In this mode WinPLOT acts as a DDE destination and is controlled by the linking application.  This operation is provided by using the Data - Paste Link menu selection.

For details See: DDE Paste Link

Return to: Automated Control


  Send Key Control

You could use send key operation by setting the keyboard focus to WinPLOT and then issuing key combination commands.  This method of control is unreliable and inefficient but can be used with some success.  (For better results use the DDE Automation Control  capabilities in the following section.)

Return to: Automated Control


About Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE)
 Dynamic Data Exchange & WinPLOT

Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE) is a method of Inter Process Communication (IPC) that is widely supported by Windows applications.

The terminology used with DDE is similar to client - server but the terminology used is source and destination respectively:  A client (destination) request a DDE server (channel source) application (WinPLOT) to open a DDE channel.

A channel, or conversation (link), is defined by what is called the LinkTopic which is composed of two parts: the Source Application followed by the running title with the | character separating them.  For WinPLOT the source application is always WinPLOT and the running title (instance) is what the WinPLOT title bar is displaying for that instance.

Example: WinPLOT|DDE Test

Note: the instance title can be issued during startup. See WinPLOT startup

The conversation is about one or more Items called LinkItems

The LinkItem for WinPLOT is always DDEData

Although WinPLOT only has one DDE item it responds to two events:

LinkPoke	Send data to WinPLOT

LineExecute	Send a command set to WinPLOT

See the included DDE_DEMO.FRM code example for an example.

Return to: Automated Control


  DDE Control

As is similar to the Paste Link function, WinPLOT can accept Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE) source connections as well as standard file as an input.  Whether you are using a data file or DDE based connection the basic data format remains the same.  The advantage of DDE control is that you can interactively control all aspects of WinPLOT from your program.

Below lists the basic steps involved in performing DDE control:

1) Establish a DDE link connection with WinPLOT

See: About Dynamic Data Exchange & WinPLOT

2) Load a data file with basic header info by using the LinkPoke DDE command.

Note:

A data load command will always automatically cause a reset and redraw to occur.

The file must include data Keywords INTERVAL and DATA if used - these keywords cannot be used as commands!

For the list of standard data header keywords see: WinPLOT Data Header

3) Send control keyword commands (LinkExecute)

  Note:

Link execute commands can only be issued after a link poke with data is issued.

Link execute operations are order dependent - operation occur as they are listed.

For the list of special control keywords see: Special Control keywords

Multiple control operations can be issued on a data file

4) Terminate the connection by issuing the EXIT command to WinPLOT.

For an actual demonstration of this functionality see the included DDE_DEMO.FRM file.  This file is a VB form but saved in text format so that you can view it.  The DDE_DEMO.EXE program is the same file in a compiled format that will function with a unregistered copy of WinPLOT.

General Notes:

Data must change to cause a update event.

The marker can only be used if the display is active

The connection link name is the caption text at startup

Return to: Automated Control


Digital Signal Processing
  Digital Signal Processing:

Any signal analysis or processing by a computer is by definition Digital Signal Processing (DSP).

WinPLOT can perform the following digital signal operations:

Spectrum 	Determine the frequency content of a signal

Integration 	Determine the accumulated amount of a signal.

Differentiation 	Determine the rate of change of a signal.

Keywords: OPERATION

Save/Restore: -none-


Spectrum
  Spectrum:

WinPLOT will transform each signal to its spectral content.  The "spectrum" is defined as the real part (magnitude) of the first half of the complex frequency transform.

WinPLOT uses the standard Cooley-Tukey Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) which requires that the number of samples (N) be a power of 2. (N=2^M:  ...64, 128, 256, 512, 1024 .... etc.).  Therefore, the sample size (length) will be trimmed to the next lower power of 2.

In general it is assumed that all sampling is based on equally spaced (time) sample points.  It is also very important to use an appropriate sample rate for accurate spectral analysis.

An "S" will be appended to the signal name.

Related Keyword/Item: OPERATION = SPECtrum

Related DDE Operation: LinkPoke

Return to: Operation

See Also

Spectral Analysis

Digital Signal Processing


  Spectral Analysis

When using the FFT it is very important to understand the relationship of the signal that is being sampled, the sample rate and the length of the observation.

See the DATA_FFT.BAS and DATA_FFT.CSV files for the following examples

1)	The sample rate (frequency) must be at least twice as fast as the signal you are sampling. (Nyquist sampling rate)

Example:

 	If you wish to observe signals that are up to 20 Hz then the sample rate must be at least 40 Hz.

2)	The frequency resolution of the transform is: (number of samples)/(sample rate)

Example:

If the sample frequency is 40 Hz and there are 128 samples then the number of hertz per sample is:    (40 Hz)/(128 samples) = 0.3125 Hz/sample

It is important to note that if the signal does not land directly on a multiple of the frequency sample then the transformed signal will "bleed" across adjacent filters causing sidelobes.

Example:

(5 Hz)/(0.3125 Hz/sample) = 16 or will "land" directly on the 17th. sample (1st. being 0-DC)

while

(8 Hz)/(0.3125 Hz/sample) = 25.6 and thus "lands" between two samples and will cause "sidelobes".

3)	There is a minimum length (number of samples) required to resolve two adjacent signals

Example: (From the example above)

8 Hz - 5 Hz = 3 Hz resolution. Thus to "see between" these signals you will need a resolution of 1.5 Hz.  Therefor the number of samples must be  (40 samples/sec)/(1.5 Hz) = 26.66 or 32 samples

See Also

Digital Signal Processing

Spectrum


Integration
  Integration:

WinPLOT will INTEGrate each signal using the Simpson integration algorithm.

Note that the that when integrating on the first four points or the last point if an even point the function will use the appropriate methods of the trapezoidal rule.  As a result, if insufficient sampling is done then appreciable errors can result at the end points.

An "i" will be appended to the signal name.

Related Keyword/Item: operation= INTEGration

Related DDE Operation: LinkPoke

Return to: Operation

See Also

Differentiation

Digital Signal Processing


Differentiation
  Differentiation:

WinPLOT will differentiate each signal using a seventh-order central difference formula.

The points n=1,2,3 and n=N-2,N-1,N are differentiated using a fourth-order approximation.  As a result, the end points can have considerable errors.

A "d" will be appended to the signal name.

Related Keyword/Item: operation= DIFFerentation

Related DDE Operation: LinkPoke

Return to: Operation

See Also

Integration

Digital Signal Processing


  Reasons For Registration

  24 to 48 hour technical response via CompuServe/E-Mail
(A postal mail response will take longer)

  The product becomes fully functional and does not display advertising.

DDE Control automation.

Allows over 2 signals and 512 samples.

Title bar no longer displays unregistered.

Printout and .WMF no longer stamped with WinPLOT vx.x

The about box does not automatically pop-up.

  With registration option #2 you will receive the latest release.

Also a group license costs as little as $2 per copy!

  If you use WinPLOT you are required to by law.

See: Warranty & Agreement

  Because you want to see continued improvements and new features.

See: Questionnaire Form

        Future features

  You want to customize WinPLOT to work with your application/system.

See: Custom Applications

See: Registration Instructions
Registration Form


Registration Instructions
  Registration Instructions:

In order to keep costs down, we do not provide on-line phone support.  If you have specific questions, problems or would like to see new features, please mail us a letter or contact us via CompuServe at 75330,746 or other E-mail. (Via Internet:  75330.746@compuserve.com)  We guarantee 24 to 48 hour response to questions Monday through Friday.  Because WinPLOT is distributed (marketed) as shareware - try before you buy - there are no refunds provided.  If your purchase is defective (i.e. media failure, wrong password # etc.) In Touch Software will make every effort to correct the situation.

Registration Option 1: Protected - Installation password - No disk provided - Single Installation

After sending in the registration form  you will receive a 4 digit password code that will properly activate your current shareware copy of WinPLOT.  To activate your installation go to the About section and enter your 4 digit number in place of the four X's (:XXXX) and then press the 'Register' button.  NOTE: If you inadvertently enter the wrong password number and press 'Register' you must then exit WinPLOT and repeat the process.  After password activation is complete, no further passwords or reminder screens will show.  If you inadvertently delete Windows and WinPLOT (i.e. a hard disk crash) you can write to us and receive a new password if required.

NOTE: It is absolutely essential when you fill out the registration form that the version # and Installation # are correct as shown on your WinPLOT About screen in order for your password to be correct.

Registration Option 2: Not protected - No password required - Disk provided - 1 or 25 Copy license

After sending in the registration form  you are provided a personalized disk which is not installation protected.  The group disk purchase option is licensed for up to 25 copies for use by the registered individual, company or class.  Note that this copy is not for distribution to the general public and cannot be used for resale purposes without prior written permission.  With this order you will receive the latest released edition of WinPLOT.  (Frequently the shareware copy is one or more revisions behind the current release because of its indirect distribution path.)

See Also

Registration form

Questionnaire form

Reasons For Registration


Registration Form
  WinPLOT v1.4 Registration Form:

Mail this form to:	In Touch Software

27934 Redwood Glen Rd.

Valencia, CA 91354

Name:	____________________________________

CompuServe ID 	__ __ __ __ __ , __ __ __ __  	or other E-mail address (optional)

Company:	____________________________________   << Used for Option 2 labeling

Address:	____________________________________

City:	_______________    State: ___  Country ____________  Zip: ________________

Payment Method 1:     Check or Money order Enclosed (Payable to In Touch Software in US funds)

Payment Method 2:      Visa     MasterCard

Card #     __ __ __ __ - __ __ __ __- __ __ __ __ - __ __ __ __     Exp. Date _____ /  _____

Signature:______________________________________________________

Registration Option 1: Protected - Installation password  - No disk provided - Single Installation

Single install:	 $5

WinPLOT Version #: 	__ . __	(should be 1.4)

WinPLOT Installation #:	__ __ __ :XXXX

Registration Option 2: Not protected - No password required - Disk provided - 1 or 25 copy license

Disk size: (high density)	  5.25"	 3.5"

Single Copy license:	 $20 (first time)	 $10	(upgrade)

Group License (25 copy):	 $50 (first time)	 $25	(upgrade)

California residents add 8.25% sales tax

Shipping and Handling  	Option 1: Code  $2	Option 2: Disk  $5

Save $1 by filling out questionnaire form (optional)     	  - $1   (attach Form)

Total enclosed: _________________


Questionare Form
  WinPLOT v1.4 Questionnaire: (Optional)

General Information:

How did you receive WinPLOT:  ( CompuServe, CD ROM (name/publisher), From a friend - etc.)

Would you like to receive notice of significant upgrades to WinPLOT:

What computer system/speed do you use: ( 386/25, 486/66, MIPS etc. )

What operating system are you using: (OS/2, Windows NT, Windows 95, etc.)

WinPLOT:

What do you like the best:

What do you like the least:

What applications do you use with WinPLOT or would like to see better integrated:

What specifically do you use WinPLOT for:

What would you like to see added, improved or expanded:

What other applications provide better or similar features:

Bugs, Comments or Suggestions:

The Help System:

Was the help system clear, correct and helpful:

What sections needed more explanation or examples:

The Data Samples Included:

Were the example data files / demos adequate:


Warranty & Agreement
  Warranty & Agreement:

IN TOUCH SOFTWARE, OR IS OWNERS, DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED.

SHOULD THIS PROGRAM PROVE DEFECTIVE, THE PURCHASER ASSUMES THE RISK OF PAYING THE ENTIRE COST OF ALL NECESSARY SERVICING, REPAIR, OR CONNECTION AND ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.

IN NO EVENT WILL IN TOUCH SOFTWARE BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR THE INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT.

RESALE OF THIS PRODUCT IS NOT PERMITTED - ONLY A NOMINAL CHAREGE MAY BE ACCEPTED FOR DISTRIBUTION.

USE OF THIS PRODUCT FOR ANY PERIOD OF TIME CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THIS AGREEMENT AND SUBJECTS YOU TO ITS CONTESTS.

USE. DUPLICATION, OR DISCLOSURE BY THE GOVERNMENT IS SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS AS SET FORTH IN SUBDIVISION (b)(3)(ii) OF THE RIGHTS IN TECHNICAL DATA AND COMPUTER SOFTWARE CLAUSE AT 52.227-7013

THE FEATURES, PERFORMANCE, COST OF THE PRODUCT OR THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE AND DOES NOT REPRESENT A COMMITMENT ON THE PART OF THE AUTHOR OR IN TOUCH SOFTWARE.

DADiSP is a registered product of DSP Development Corporation.

MathCAD is a registered product of MathCAD, Inc.

MATLAB is a registered product of The Math Works, Inc.

MS-DOS, EXCEL, Windows, QBASIC, and Visual Basic are all registered products of Microsoft Corporation

See Also

Registration Instructions