MATLAB 5.0 Now Available on RCS

Version 5.0 of the MATLAB numerical analysis package is now available on RCS. To use this version of MATLAB, enter the following commands at a UNIX prompt:

     setup matlab-new
     matlab

The latest version of the package includes:

• New language features including multidimensional arrays, user-definable data structures, object-oriented programming, and variable-length arguments

• Improved visualization and graphics, with the addition of Greek symbols, dual axis plots, pie charts, new lighting models, and better display algorithms

• New functions including additional ODE solvers, gridding for irregular sample data, set theory functions, multidimensional interpolation, and discrete Fourier transforms (FFTs)

• Version 2.0 of SIMULINK, which provides an improved simulation engine that can better simulate stiff systems, and can simulate systems where subsystems get executed only when logic activates the subsystem

• Tools that make M-file programming easier, such as an integrated M-file editor and a visual M-file debugger

For more information, start MATLAB and enter the following command at the MATLAB >> prompt:

     helpdesk

Helpdesk connects to the MATLAB web site using RPInfo; explore the "New in MATLAB 5" section for the latest information. If you write your own M-files, follow the "How to Update Your Code" link to read about obsolete functions and changes to function arguments.

MATLAB 5.0 will become the system default on Tuesday, August 19, and you will no longer have to set it up. You will still be able to access the current version of MATLAB, Version 4.2, until September 19 by entering the command setup matlab-old at a UNIX prompt before running the program.

If you have any questions or problems with MATLAB, contact Mark Miller at 276-2751, or direct electronic mail to millem@rpi.edu.