This file contains general information about DataFit version 4.0 by Engineered Software. For the most up to date release notes and version information, look at our home page on the web. The URL is: http://www.kagi.com/authors/johng/ _______________________________________________________________________ Table of Contents: Section 1 - Thank you Section 2 - What is DataFit? Section 3 - Machine Requirements Section 4 - Pricing, Distribution and License Information Section 5 - Automatic Installation using SETUP.EXE Section 6 - Contacting us _______________________________________________________________________ Section 1 - Thank you! Thank you to everyone who has registered, especially those of you who have provided us with useful feedback. You are keeping us going! Keep watching the home page, http://www.kagi.com/authors/johng/ for new releases and information. _______________________________________________________________________ Section 2 - What is DataFit? (v4.0) DataFit is a tool used to perform nonlinear and linear regression analysis (curve fitting) and plotting of data with models containing up to 9 independent variables. What sets DataFit apart from similar curve fitting and regression programs is its ease of use. With the combination of an intuitive interface, online help and wide range of features, it is a tool which is used effectively by both experts and non-experts alike. With DataFit you can: - Enter your data in a standard spreadsheet interface, import delimited data files, or cut and paste data between DataFit and other Windows applications. - Perform nonlinear OR linear regression on data containing up to 9 independent variables, with models containing up to 20 parameters. There are over 150 commonly used scientific, statistical and engineering 2D and 3D models that are built in. You can also define an unlimited amount of your own models. - Perform linear OR nonlinear regression on one model at a time that you choose from a list, groups of models (built in model groups, or define your own), or all of the models available with a simple mouse click. The built in models are grouped together based on the number of parameters and the general shape of their curves, so there is no need to 'blindly' solve every model. As models are solved, they are sorted automatically according to their goodness of fit. If you aren't an expert and aren't sure which model you should use, DataFit helps you make this decision. - View the results, including the fitted parameters along with their confidence intervals, input vs. Estimated data, and goodness of fit information, all with a simple mouse click. - Data modification is a snap because the software keeps track of the most recently solved models. - Attach notes to record information and conclusions about the project. - Save projects along with all of the notes and solution information. There is no need to keep re-solving the problem each time you run the software. - Export source code to utilize a model of your choice in a program that you have written. You can export self-documented code in either BASIC or C (currently 2D models only). - Manipulate raw data or regression models in a built in Data Calculator. The Data Calculator can perform over 70 mathematical and statistical operations on curves, discreet data, or numbers. The calculator can also perform some special functions, such as FFT's, creating a data table based on an equation you type in, or produce a "Normal" (Gaussian) curve based on user entered mean and standard deviation (currently 2D plots only). - Create 2D and 3D plots of raw data and/or regression models by simply selecting the desired information from a list of available data. Each plot is completely customizable, including fonts, ranges, line colors and styles, error bars, visibility, et. - Graphically compare the results of different models and/or data on the same plot window. - Save plots along with all of their customization. - Copy plots to the Windows clipboard for pasting into other applications. _______________________________________________________________________ Section 3 - Machine Requirements DataFit version 4.0 is a 32 bit application, supported on Windows '95, and Windows NT version 3.51 or later. Memory Requirement - At least 4 MB RAM Disk Space Requirement - Approximately 4 MB Math coprocessor is not required, but will be utilized if present. _______________________________________________________________________ Section 4 - Distribution and License Information The software is being distributed as Shareware. You may evaluate it free of charge for 30 days. If, after the 30 day evaluation period, you choose to continue using the software, you must register it. Register your copy of DataFit by selecting Complete Registration Form in the Registration Information window. Follow the instructions shown to you in the registration panels. This program relies on your support for continued development, and single user registration is only $50.00. When you register DataFit, you will receive a code that enables additional features in the software and become eligible for priority support. You will also be able to obtain free upgrades of the program through our Web page (address below) with which you can use your current registration code, until the next major release. To register a copy of DataFit, please use the Register program provided with the software to make payments. We use KAGI Registration service, which accepts different payment methods, including checks, mail orders, credit cards and invoices. If you live in the US or Canada you may also mail us your check or money order directly, payable to John A. Gilmore, at the following postal address: Engineered Software C/O John A. Gilmore 23 Tomey Road Oakdale, PA 15071 USA Email: johng@kagi.com License cost: Version 4.0 2D is a free upgrade for registered users of version 3.0 or later. Single user 2D license, for personal use only: $50 per copy (US) Single user 3D license, for personal use only: $50 per copy (US) Single user 2D and 3D license, for personal use only: $80 per copy (US) Site 2D license, for use by anyone at a company or organization at a single location: $200.00 (US) Site 3D license, for use by anyone at a company or organization at a single location: $200.00 (US) Site 2D and 3D license, for use by anyone at a company or organization at a single location: $320.00 (US) World 2D and 3D License, for use by anyone at a company or organization at any location: $2500.00 Upgrades from previous versions, contact us about upgrade pricing. Interim upgrades are typically free and downloadable from the website. Major releases are typically the difference between what you paid and the new cost of the software if there is a price increase. Universities using the software for classroom instruction may contact us for reduced rates on individual student licenses. Distribution is permitted provided you follow these instructions: You are free to make copies of the distribution archive (DTAFITxx.ZIP) and pass it along to others for evaluation provided that no modifications or additions are made to the software, its documentation, or any associated files. Support is available through the addresses listed above, whether you are a registered user or not. Registered users will receive priority treatment. E-mail inquiries typically receive the quickest responses. _______________________________________________________________________ Section 5 - Automatic Installation using SETUP.EXE To automatically install DataFit for Windows on your hard disk: 1. If you have received the software from an archive in the form of a .ZIP file, copy the contents of the archive to a temporary directory and unzip the files. Copy the unzipped files to a floppy disk to keep as a backup. If you have received the software on a floppy disk directly from Engineered Software, the files will already be unzipped. 2. Place the disk in a floppy drive of your computer if you are installing from the floppy disk. 3. Open the File menu of the Windows program manager (if you are running Windows 3.1 or Windows NT) and select Run, or click on the "Start" button and select Run... (if you are running Windows '95). 4. In the Run dialog box, type A:SETUP or B:SETUP, depending on the drive used. 5. The Setup application will prompt you for additional information as required. _______________________________________________________________________ Section 6 - Contacting us If you have any questions or problems installing or setting up the programs, you may contact us via email at johng@kagi.com, or by US Mail at: Engineered Software C/O John A. Gilmore 23 Tomey Road Oakdale, PA 15071 USA The URL for our home page is: http://www.kagi.com/authors/johng/ Don't forget the trailing slash! For more information, see the topic "Licenses, Registration and Technical Support" in the online help. _______________________________________________________________________