Windows graphing calculator software

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding suitable Windows software that functions as a graphing calculator, particularly for complex functions. Participants explore various software options, their features, and usability, including both standalone applications and online tools.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks recommendations for Windows software that can graph complex functions beyond the capabilities of the Microsoft Student calculator.
  • Some participants suggest Mathematica as a comprehensive but costly option, while others recommend Maxima as a free alternative.
  • Another suggestion is gnuplot, noted for its graphing capabilities, although it may require coding.
  • A participant expresses a desire for simpler software that does not necessitate coding for graphing queries.
  • GraphCalc and WebGraphing are mentioned, but one participant reports difficulties in plotting complex functions with these tools.
  • There is a request for clarification on what constitutes a "complex function," with a participant emphasizing the need for specific examples.
  • Discussion includes the potential for using emulator software to run virtual graphing calculators on PCs.
  • Some participants discuss the challenges of graphing complex-valued functions of a complex variable, noting the complexity involved.
  • A book recommendation is made for "Complex Analysis with Mathematica" to assist in understanding complex functions.
  • Participants share resources for interactive 3D graphing and inquire about rotating 3D graphics in Mathematica.
  • LiveGraphics3D is suggested as a tool that works with Mathematica for producing interactive 3D graphs.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a variety of opinions on the best software options, with no consensus on a single preferred tool. There are differing views on the ease of use of Mathematica versus Maxima, and some participants report challenges with specific functionalities in the software discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the complexity of graphing certain types of functions, particularly complex-valued functions, which may require advanced understanding and specific software capabilities. The discussion reflects varying levels of familiarity with the software mentioned.

springo
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Hi,
I was looking for some Windows software that did the job a graphing calculator does, but on the computer screen. I've been using the calculator that comes with Microsoft Student, but it lacks some features that would be quite useful (specially when it comes to complex functions).
Which software should I use?
Thank you very much.
 
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If you want ONLY a graphing software, then use gnuplot. Maxima, which uses gnuplot for graphing, is a full-fledged (at least among oss/freeware) CAS.
 
Aren't there any 'easier' ones? I mean, not requiring you to code your queries.
 
I used this a couple of years ago...you've got to just enter equations, although I 'm not sure if it handled complex functions.
http://www.graphcalc.com/
 
Online Graphing of Complex Functions

The website www.webgraphing.com plots complex functions with calculus analysis. Also, it is pretty easy to use.:smile: :smile:
 
I wasn't able to plot complex functions in GraphCalc or WebGraphing, but I'm giving Mathematica a try.
However, I'm not able to rotate 3D graphics yet. How can I do it?
Thanks.
 
Give an example of a complex function!

It would be helpful if you gave an example of what you call a complex function. The term can be used is a variety of ways, so how you use it is important. For example, if you mean a complex-valued function of a real variable, then there are no graphing calculators that will graph it; you will need to create your own programs. On the other hand, if you mean, say, a :rolleyes: real-valued trig functions of a real variable, just about any graphing calculator will do, including the ones you tried and did not get what you wanted.

If you mean 3D graphing, there are many graphing calculators that will do the job. It all depends...
 
springo said:
I wasn't able to plot complex functions in GraphCalc or WebGraphing, but I'm giving Mathematica a try.
However, I'm not able to rotate 3D graphics yet. How can I do it?
Thanks.

You're finding it easier to enter codes in Mathematica than in Maxima! :confused:
 
  • #10
  • #11
calcwiz said:
It would be helpful if you gave an example of what you call a complex function.
I meant something like:
[tex]f(z) = \frac{1}{z}[/tex]
(with z being any number from the complex plane)

neutrino said:
You're finding it easier to enter codes in Mathematica than in Maxima!
I didn't mean to say that. I didn't try Maxima, I just tried the website and GraphCalc. As I couldn't see how to use them for my puroposes, I decided to try using Mathematica. So, you mean Maxima is easier than Mathematica (but has the same functionality)?

chroot said:
You might also want to look into emulator software
I don't a TI, but a Casio. I'll look for my "virtual" one.

Thank you all for your answers!
 
  • #12
Complex-valued functions of a complex variable

So, you want to graph complex-valued functions of a complex variable. That involves a domain of two dimensions (x+iy) and a range of two dimensions (u+iv) . This is not for the faint of heart!
 
  • #13
Complex Analysis with Mathematica

If you are serious, you might check out the book "Complex Analysis with Mathematica" by William T. Shaw, copyright 2006, Cambridge University Press. There you will find various ways to plot complex valued functions of a complex variable.
 
  • #14
calcwiz said:
If you are serious, you might check out the book "Complex Analysis with Mathematica" by William T. Shaw, copyright 2006, Cambridge University Press. There you will find various ways to plot complex valued functions of a complex variable.
Thanks, I'll check that book as soon as I can.

Since we're talking about Mathematica, please let me ask again: how can I rotate a 3Dm graph?
Thank you.
 
  • #15
The quickest way is to use any of several Interactive 3D Graphing Calculators on WebGraphing.com. You can check out some examples of 3D :cool: function graphs at:

http://www.webgraphing.com/examples_graph3d.jsp

and follow the instructions to rotate, zoom in/out, spin, etc.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #16
Thanks! I had tried that before and it's great.
However I'd still like to know if it's possible to do the same in Mathematica.
 

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