Freesoft 1997 May/Freesoft_1997-05_cd.bin/recenz/HOBBY/DTAFIT/README.TXT

Text File | 1997-08-09 | 15KB | 356 lines

This file contains general information about DataFit Version 4.1
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 - Registering, Distribution and License Information
Section 5 - Automatic Installation using SETUP.EXE
Section 6 - Contacting us
Section 7 - Removing DataFit from your machine
Section 8 - Association of Shareware Professionals
_______________________________________________________________________

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?

(v4.1) 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.

- 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 and creating a data table based on an equation you type in.

- 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 4.1 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 - Registering, 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. A single
user registration of 2D or 3D is only $50.00 (US).

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.

Registrations are taken through Kagi Payment Service, which accpets
cash, money orders, VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Discover,
Diners Club and First Virtual.

You can register the software in any of the following ways:

1. Register by FAX, Email (Electronic mail) or Postal. Use the Register
   program provided with the software to make payments.
   We use KAGI Payment service, which accepts different payment methods,
   including checks, mail orders, credit cards and invoices. You can run
   the register program in the following methods:

   a) From the DataFit Help menu, click on Register DataFit and choose
      Email, Fax or Postal from the menu.  This will run the register
      program which gives you explicit instructions on how to make your
      payment.
   b) Click the Windows Start button, and then point to Programs.
      Click on the Engineered Software folder, then click the Register
      program.  Again, this will run the register program which gives
      you explicit instructions on how to make your payment.
   c) From the Windows Explorer, Double Click the Program Files folder,
      then double click the DataFit folder. Once the DataFit folder is
      opened, double click on Register.exe. As before, this will run the
      register program which gives you explicit instructions on how to
      make your payment.

      PLEASE INCLUDE THE REGISTRATION FORM WITH YOUR PAYMENT.

2. Register from the World Wide Web.  You can register online with the
   following methods.

   a) From the DataFit Help menu, click on Register DataFit and choose
      Register Online. If a default web browser is properly registered
      on your system, this will launch it and connect you directly to
      the Kagi Online Payment Service.  There you will be given explicit
      instruction on how to make your payment.
   b) Point your web browser to http://order.kagi.com/?JA.  This is
      the URL for the Kagi Online Payment Service. Again, you will be
      given explicit instruction on how to make your payment.

3. Register by Telephone

   Call Kagi Payment Service at [phone], 24 hours a day, 7 days
   a week. You can register DataFit over the phone with a credit card.
   DO NOT CALL THIS NUMBER FOR DATAFIT TECHNICAL SUPPORT.  THIS PHONE
   NUMBER IS FOR REGISTRATIONS ONLY!

   Also, please specify the following to insure you are registering the
   license you really want.  This will insure that you get the correct
   registration codes without any additional delays.

   a) Specify that you want the product DataFit, and the Author Code
      for DataFit is JADV.
   b) Specify a Single User License, Site License or Word License
      (see below for a description for each).
   c) Specify one of the following Program Codes, depending on which
      license you want:

      License Type            Program Code
      2D License              DataFit_2D
      3D License              DataFit_3D
      2D/3D License           DataFit_2D_and_3D


4. If you live in the US or Canada you may also mail us your check or
   money order (US ONLY) 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

   PLEASE INCLUDE THE REGISTRATION FORM WITH YOUR PAYMENT.

License Cost:

New Users:
License Type            Product                 Price (per copy)
Single User License     DataFit 2D or 3D        $50.00
Single User License     DataFit 2D and 3D       $80.00
Site License            DataFit 2D or 3D        $200.00
Site License            DataFit 2D and 3D       $320.00
World License           DataFit 2D or 3D        $2000.00
World License           DataFit 2D and 3D       $2200.00

Note: Single User License are for use by a single person, for personal
use only.  Site License is for use by anyone at a company or
organization at a single location.  World License is for use by anyone
at a company or organization at any location.

Upgrades from previous versions 2.x (upgrades from versions 3.x and 4.0
are free). YOU MUST HAVE A CURRENT LICENSE:
License Type            Product                 Price (per copy)
Single User License     DataFit 2D or 3D        $20.00
Single User License     DataFit 2D and 3D       $32.00
Site License            DataFit 2D or 3D        $80.00
Site License            DataFit 2D and 3D       $128.00
World License           DataFit 2D or 3D        $800.00
World License           DataFit 2D and 3D       $880.00

Universities using the software for classroom instruction may contact
us for reduced rates on individual student licenses.

Note:  2D license enables the use of DataFit for solving single
independent variable regression models. 3D license enables the use
of DataFit to solve regression models with 2 to 9 independent
variables. The purchase of the combination 2D and 3D license enables
the use of DataFit to it's fullest capability.

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. Click on the Windows "Start" button and select Run...

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

You can receive technical support whether you are a registered user or
not, however registered users receive priority response.  You can
obtain technical support in any of the following ways:

1) Email your question or problem via email to [e-mail].
   Email typically receives the quickest response.

2) Fax your question or problem at any time to:
  [phone].  DO NOT FAX ORDERS OR REGISTRATION FORMS TO THIS
  NUMBER. THIS NUMBER IS FOR DATAFIT TECHNICAL SUPPORT ONLY!
  This number is for Fax support only.

3) You can mail your question or problem to the following postal
   address:

   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.

_______________________________________________________________________

Section 7 - Removing DataFit from your machine

If you are running Windows 95 or Windows NT version 4.x and want to
remove DataFit from your machine, do the following:

1.  Click on Start/Settings/Control Panel.
2.  Double Click the Add/Remove Programs Icon.
3.  On the Install/Uninstall Tab, click on DataFit in the list.
4.  Click on Add/Remove

If you are running Windows NT version 3.x, Double Click the UnInstall
DataFit icon in the Engineered Software program group.

Warning: Most of the files distributed with DataFit are shared files,
which may be used by other applications. These files should not be
deleted manually. Uninstalling DataFit as recommended above checks to
see if the shared files are used by any other program installed on your
computer and will not delete them if they are in use. If you delete
these files manually, your system may become unstable. The only files
that can be manually deleted safely are the files copied to the
application directory.

The files copied to the application directory (the directory you
specified when installing DataFit) are:

File            Description
DataFit.exe     The DataFit Executable File
Register.exe    The Register Executable File
DataFit.cnt     The DataFit Help Contents File
DataFit.hlp     The DataFit Help File
Register.hlp    The Register Help File
Engrsoft.html    Local Web Page
ReadMe.txt    Read me file
TipOfDay.txt    Tip of the Day Text File
Tutor2D.dat    Data File for the 2D Tutorial
Tutor3D.dat    Data File for the 3D Tutorial

The following files are created during installation and execution of DataFit:

File            Description
DataFit.gid     DataFit Help Related File
St*Unst.Log     Installation Log File
_______________________________________________________________________

Section 8 - Association of Shareware Profesionals

We are proud to be a member of the Association of Shareware
Professionals (ASP). You can visit the ASP Home Page at
http://asp-shareware.org/.

Ombudsman Statement:

DataFit is produced by a member of the Association of Shareware
Professionals (ASP). The ASP wants to make sure that the shareware
principle works for you. If you are unable to resolve a
shareware-related problem with an ASP member by contacting the
member directly, ASP may be able to help. The ASP Ombudsman can
help you resolve a dispute or problem with  an ASP member, but
does not provide technical support for members' products. Please
write to the ASP Ombudsman at 545 Grover Road, Muskegon, MI 49442 USA,
FAX [phone] or  send a CompuServe message via CompuServe Mail to
ASP Ombudsman 70007,3536.