How to Install a Free MatLab-like Environment on your PC

(Sept. 09)

This is a scientific/mathematic programming environment based on python.  It uses free open-source software.  

These instructions are for a pc running windows xp. (For Vista make sure you are logged in as administrator for installation.) If you use linux, you can probably figure out what to do. If you use an apple, oh well...

1.  Install python.  Use version 2.6.x, not version 3.  Get from http://www.python.org/download/  Download and install

2.  Install numpy.  Get from http://sourceforge.net/, search for numpy.  Use version for python 2.6.  Download and install

3. Install scipy.  Get from http://sourceforge.net/, search for scipy.  Download and install version for python 2.6.

4.  Install matplotlib.  Get from http://sourceforge.net/.  Download and install

5.  Start using by running IDLE found in the Python 2.6 submenu from START menu. This opens the command line window.  Choosing File, New Window, opens a window for editing a python program.   You can copy and paste examples from: Python notes and examples

6.  Most people can ignore this step. If the pc is setup for multiple users, make sure that the HOMEPATH environment variable is not set to root {\}, but instead to the user's Documents and Settings folder. (Check by typing SET in a Command Prompt window.) To change it, enter a new System variable, HOMEPATH=%USERPROFILE%, via the Environment Variables button on the Advanced tab of System Properties. (assuming XP)

Comments? Email me: ehhellen@uncg.edu

Here is a slightly modified example from Matplotlib website of what you can do with matplotlib.