Dataplot

What Dataplot is

Dataplot is a free desktop system for scientific visualization, statistical analysis, and nonlinear modeling. NIST describes its intended users as researchers and analysts working with scientific and engineering processes. Its capabilities cover statistical and mathematical analysis, graphics, fitting, time-series analysis, reliability, and statistical process control, including statistical tests and regression models.

Dataplot uses an interactive, high-level language with free-format, English-like syntax. Commands support graphics, fitting, data analysis, and mathematics. It produces 2D and 3D, contour, color, multi-trace, and multi-plot graphics, as well as presentation and summary graphics. It imports space-, comma-, or tab-delimited ASCII text, limited Fortran unformatted binary data, and Excel workbooks through READ EXCEL. The default workspace holds 10 variables by 1,000,000 rows, totaling 10,000,000 data points.

Dataplot runs on Windows, Linux/Unix, and macOS. The Windows distribution is a binary installation for Windows 10/11; Linux/Unix and macOS distributions are built from source, which is available on GitHub. Its graphical interface uses Tcl/Tk scripts that must be installed separately. Dataplot can generate PostScript graphics and convert plots to PDF. Users can extend it with command macros, GUI menu changes, or source code changes.

Who it suits

Dataplot suits researchers and analysts working with scientific and engineering processes who need statistical analysis, nonlinear modeling, or scientific graphics on a desktop. It is also suited to users comfortable with an interactive command language and, on Linux/Unix or macOS, building the distribution from source.

Limits

The default workspace supports 10 variables by 1,000,000 rows, totaling 10,000,000 data points. Official support is not guaranteed and is provided when staff time allows, with NIST staff prioritized.

Getting started

1. Visit the Dataplot website to download the distribution for your desktop platform.
2. On Windows, use the binary installation for Windows 10/11.
3. On Linux/Unix or macOS, build the distribution from source available on GitHub.
4. Install Tcl/Tk separately if you want to use the graphical interface.
5. Import delimited ASCII text, limited Fortran unformatted binary, or Excel workbooks with READ EXCEL.

Verdict

Choose Dataplot if you need a free desktop tool for scientific and engineering analysis, with statistical methods, modeling, and graphics in one system. It is a stronger fit for users comfortable with its command language and platform specific installation steps. Look elsewhere if you need a native mobile installation or guaranteed official support.