Computational Tools
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Some of your homework problems require the use of interactive and automated computer programs. The program that came with the 6th edition is easy to use. Unfortunately it won't work on most newer PC systems because it was developed for older generations of PCs. If that is the case for your computer, you can down load a newer version by clicking
IOR Tutorial and following the instructions. Because we are caught between a transition, the newer version is not as complete as its predecessor but quite adequate. For example, it does not come with a graphical method tool, in which case you can do by hand alternatively.
- If you want to give a try on your computer and need a copy of the older program, either email me or stop by to get a copy. It is worth the try. If it does not work, forget about it and use the
IOR Tutorial and hand graphing instead.
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The two software packages discussed above are good for learning, demonstration, and small size problems. In more realistic settings and to do some of your class work, you need some more powerful routines. The Excel Solver should meet most of these needs. If you are using a PC, make sure a component under Tools of Excel, called Solver, is also installed. Once Solver is there, it is very easy to follow the instructions of Sec.3.6 and learn how to use it to do homeworks and projects.