Looking for open source alternatives to popular math software?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying open source alternatives to popular mathematical software such as MatLab, Maple, and Mathematica. Participants share their experiences and opinions on various software options, focusing on their capabilities and suitability for different tasks.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants mention FreeMat and Octave as alternatives to MatLab, noting their usability.
  • Octave is described as a decent option, particularly for those looking for a MatLab replacement.
  • Maxima is highlighted as a potential substitute for Mathematica and Maple, although it is noted to lack some features that MatLab offers.
  • One participant points out that Octave does not have Computer Algebra System (CAS) functionality, which Maxima provides.
  • There is a suggestion to check out Maxima for those interested in alternatives with CAS capabilities.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the effectiveness of different software options, with no consensus on a single best alternative. Some agree on the merits of Octave, while others emphasize the strengths of Maxima.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific features and functionalities of the software, indicating that the suitability of each alternative may depend on the specific needs of the user.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals seeking open source mathematical software alternatives, particularly those familiar with MatLab, Maple, or Mathematica, may find this discussion relevant.

FulhamFan3
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Anyone know of any open source alternatives to MatLab, Maple, Mathematica, etc.?
 
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FreeMat and Octave are two Matlab-ish programs that I've used.
 
octave is pretty good.
 
I created a thread awhile back dealing with the best math-related OSS available (in my opinion):

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=73462

Maxima is mostly written in LISP and it's possible to use TeXmacs or Emacs to view it's output in LaTeX. Take a look at some of the screenshots I made.

Maxima is best suited as a replacement for Mathematica and Maple as it's missing a few (many) features that Matlab offers.
 
I used octave not to long ago to do some control analysis. I'll have to check out maxima.
 
dduardo said:
I used octave not to long ago to do some control analysis. I'll have to check out maxima.

Octave is decent, but it doesn't have CAS functionality, like Maxima does. I would suggest that Octave be used as Matlab replacement.
 

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