Dx Data Formats

Reading data into dx is far easier than the other similar packages, but can still be frustrating at first. Rather than recreating the manuals here, I will list several things to do (listed with the easiest for you first).

1. Contact Barry Schaudt, the graphics support coordinator, schaudt@msi.umn.edu. After I understand your data formats, I can usually create the necessary file(s) and then explain them and how to modify them. This whole process usually, but not always, takes less than one hour. I can also create dx programs to get you started. Note: This is easier to do in person.

2. If your data is structured, use the Data Prompter ( dx -prompter) to create a file, data.general, that describes your data format and tells dx the name of the data file. This point and click interface is easy to use and will probably require you to look at the IBM Visualization Data Explorer QuickStart Guide, which is in the Institute's library. This guide gives a good description of the Data Prompter, and the various data types and formats.

   If you data is unstructured (triangulation and such), a little more work is required; the Data Prompter will not be of use. Contact the graphics support coordinator for assistance.