Use your Macintosh to view plots from scientific instruments or DOS, UNIX, VMS, or mainframe computers.
	Convert HP-GL input to object-oriented (PICT) output.
	Incorporate plots directly into word processing and desktop publishing documents. Edit plots with standard graphics programs like MacDraw.
	Maintain a pictorial database of spectra using FileMaker, HyperCard or other programs.
	Dozens of applications - IR, NMR, chromatography, X-ray spectroscopy, CAD, architecture, 3-D drawings, digital oscilloscopes, and more.

"PlotView is a very useful general emulation program for acquiring, saving, and using HP graphics information in a Macintosh environment. It is straightforward to learn and use and produces standard output that can be read by other software for the Mac or any HP plotter. It can handle large files with many vectors such as are found in molecular models of enzyme/substrate interactions or CAD graphics and would be useful in almost any application involving HP plotters." - Journal of the American Chemical Society, Vol. 112, No. 7, p. 2844 (1990).

Features

HP-GL to PICT conversion

HP-GL input is converted into an object-oriented (PICT) Macintosh screen picture (not a simple bitmap).

Supports Most HP-GL Commands

All major line and character drawing HP-GL commands are emulated, as well as interrogative commands which are used to support direct connection to some software. New commands added in response to user needs.

Direct Input

In direct input mode, PlotView accepts and interprets input in real time through the modem (or printer) port of the Macintosh, which can be directly connected to the RS-232 output of scientific instruments or other computers at speeds up to 19200 baud. This mode provides the only mechanism for capturing output from software which does not have a "plot to disk" capability. Cable which is required to support this mode (typically a simple "Mac-to-modem" cable) is not included.

Text File Input

PlotView can also interpret HP-GL commands stored in text files which have been transferred to the Macintosh via other mechanisms (floppy disks, networks, etc.). Data from software which can "plot to disk" can be captured in this way.

Easy Transfer to Other Software

"Plots" can be transferred to other software via the Clipboard, Scrapbook, or a PICT file, for editing or incorporation into documents. Picture editing within PlotView itself is not supported.

Batch Mode Operation

Files "dragged-and-dropped" onto PlotView are automatically converted and saved as PICT files. Using AppleScript, entire folders of files can be automatically converted.

Text Captured as Characters

Most software outputs text as characters; in that case the text can also be edited (again, using other software, not within PlotView). Some software outputs text as vectors; in that case the text cannot be edited as characters but can be modified like other vectors.

Automatic Line Grouping

Continuously drawn multi-segment lines in your "plot" are automatically grouped for convenient picture editing.

Automatically Drawn "Paper"

An attractive piece of "paper" can be drawn around your plot if you choose.

Emulates A Through D-Size Plotters

Some HP-GL output is plotter-independent, but some expects a particular paper size. PlotView allows you to "preset" the paper from A through D size for proper emulation.

Flexible Color Control

Plots can be drawn using full eight-color output, with each pen of the HP plotter assigned to any one of eight Macintosh screen colors, and the "paper" assigned to another color. Plots can also be drawn in one- or two-color (black and gray) mode.

Prints Plots

Output plot to any standard PostScript or non-PostScript printer.

Re-export Files to Plotter

HP-GL input can be captured into a text file, and later re-exported back to an actual HP plotter. Please note: PlotView does not convert PICT files to HP-GL.

Keyboard Input Mode

If you're familiar with HP-GL (the Hewlett-Packard Graphics Language), you can type in commands from the keyboard to create a picture. This is also a handy tool for programmers who want to become familiar with HP-GL.

Adapts to Your Preferences

Preferred settings for communications parameters, pen style, color choices, font style and size, paper choice, drawing size, and resolution mode can be saved.

System 8 Compatible

PlotView runs on all Macintoshes from the 512K "enhanced" to the G3s, and is fully System 8 compatible (and also runs on System 7, 6 and possibly even 5).

Small and Fast

In these days of "bloatware," the PlotView application is only 108K!

What's New in Version 4.0?

• 32-bit clean version runs on all PowerMacs, latest System software
• Control over line thickness in printed output
• Higher resolution printing from within PlotView
• More control over font sizes
• Support for hardwire and XON/XOFF handshaking provides improved reliability for capturing input
• Use of printer port or modem port for input
• User control over high-resolution expansion factor

Where to Now?

• View some pictures to see the kinds of applications PlotView can help you with.
• Read the complete online manual to get a full picture of what PlotView can do.
• Read the pricing/licensing policies
• Order a copy of PlotView, either online with a credit card or via other means.
• Download a functional (save disabled) trial version of PlotView
• Return to the Stevens Creek Software home page.