The Graphical Interface
by Sharon Kardia

From Amtec
Version 7

Unlike the rest of the packages reviewed here, Tecplot was designed for data visualization, and not analysis. Consequently, it is in a class by itself.

UNIQUE GRAPHICS FEATURES: There are several features that make Tecplot unique. It has options for creating two-dimensional and three-dimensional field and mesh plots, and overlaying streamtraces on top of these. TecPlot also has three-dimensional graphing options that no other package even attempts, such as a hidden line-removal algorithm, light-source positioning for differential three-dimensional viewing and orthographic versus perspective three-dimensional projections. And it also has unique colour control that can create the illusion of transparency.

STRENGTHS: In general, Tecplot's three-dimensional graphical capabilities are superb and it has very good graphical animation options. Tecplot also has the most sophisticated vector plots, which can be positioned on top of mesh plots, carpot plots or stand alone. It also has excellent contour plot control, as well as good control of what boundaries are displayed for any type of geometrical shape. Its graphical customizing abilities were some of the best tested.

WEAKNESSES: Tecplot's only weakness is that it is not designed for statistically based research and requires a knowledge of FORTRAN in order to easily program some specific options.

LIKELY USERS: Tecplot would be wonderful for engineers of all types, physicists of various types and individuals pursuing good graphical portrayals of nonlinear, dynamic systems.

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