Viewing Two Plots

[wa1fxt]

Bob,

When viewing two plots, it sure would be nice to be able to switch the cursor and data sets between plots. And, it would be nice to be able to create a file that stores multiple plots in addition to the separate plots.

If one were to create presentations from the multiple data, this could save some time and extra steps.

73, Bob WA!FXT

[cebik]

Rather than start a whole new topic, I am using Bob's notes on viewing 2 plots to add some experience with setting up plots for use in documents. My tools are AIM, Paint Shop Pro (PSP), and Word (or HTML).

If I need an AIM screen in a document, I first set the screen size in the Config file at 800 x 500. 800 pixels is a good size to ensure that the full page-width version in Word will still have crisp print. I then save the graph and/or save the screen as a BMP.

Since BMP is a very big file, I open the file in PSP. The BMP version has considerable room for titles and other annotations added within PSP. Since the file is line oriented, I then save as a .GIF. Depending on the content, I reduce colors to 256 (GIF maximum) or to 16. As a .GIF file, the annotated plot is immediately ready for HTML or for insertion in a Word document. You can also save the same file in any of a large number of formats, depending on the neds, wishes, or demands of a publisher. For line oriented graphics, .JPG is not recommended, since it will usually "fuzz" the print when inserting in a Word document.

The insert function in Word will limit the width of the graph automatically. The default 900 x 600 pixel size will usually appear with reduced size for the print, making the labels, etc., harder to read. 800 x 500 leaves the print larger after insertion and easier to read, and it is sharper if the document is converted to PDF. (I tend to set PDF graphics to the highest resolution possible.)

Using .GIF prior to import tends to hold the graphic and the Word document size down to reasonable proportions while still allowing a crisp and easy-to-read plot.

Of course, when using AIM on screen, set the size to the most convenient size for examining the fine detail. However, having access to the config file from within AIM and doing a simple close and re-open eases the problem of changing screen sizes. I generally use different computers for document development and for measurement, so I save relevant grapghs. At the end of a measurement session, I move the saved graph files to the document machine and then use a resize AIM screen to create PSP and document grapics at leisure.

Just one user's preferences. I am sure that there are other ways to skin the same cat.

[k6mhe]

LB,

Have you tried using Dan Maguire's Zplots? I have found it great for making graphics that I wish to use in documents.

www.ac6la.com/zplots.html

73,
Danny, K6MHE