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Igor Pro review (2nd and last part)


Igor pro review.
(by wavemetrics , version 6.22a)

IGOR Pro is an interactive software environment for experimentation with scientific and engineering data and for the production of publication-quality graphs and page layouts.

Igor pro runs on windows and macintosh natively.
For a complete overview I suggest to browse wavemetrics site, linked above)


First part here

a) File import, and batch file import
Igor pro can import mostly all kind of text data files (e.g. data files, csv ).
The process in which data files are converted into waves is straightforward, you have the finest control over all the parameters.
The only gripe I have is that batch file import isn't easy at all.

b) graph printing
Graphs are very high quality and really better looking than most ( especially better looking that those printed in origin lab).
They can be exported in a plethora of format. (see picture)
Graph format export options

c) Summarizing:

Igor pro is really powerful, but at times it can be "scary" and unfriendly.
Main pros:
-really powerful if you master the igor pro language programming(most students really don't need all this horsepower)
-very clean  command based interface 

main cons:
-very clean  command based interface (Note: interface interaction can be painful if you don't master it enough)
-batch import of date files is awkward
-not available for Liunx distributions.


All in all, you have to carefully evaluate your needs and your habits.
 For simple plotting and data analysis igor pro may be a tad overkill and thus can drive you mad.
But for complex experimental procedures the flexibility of igor pro is unmatched.