What are the options for graphical plotting and data visualization in Modula-2?
Graphical Libraries in Modula-2
Modula-2 is an evolved version of the Pascal language, which allows for more options in terms of graphics, but numerous ones for data visualization are not directly built into the language. Various third-party libraries and extensions provide capabilities for graphical plotting and data visualization in Modula-2. Among these, some of the commonly used ones are:
iX: Graphics Library for Modula-2
iX is a graphics library designed specifically for Modula-2. It provides a rich set of graphical objects like points, lines, polygons, and text, which can be flexibly manipulated using Modula-2. Its extensive feature set makes it a prominent choice for creating visual data interfaces and conducting basic interactions using the Modula-2 language.
Moreover, iX supports two-dimensional graphical operations enhancing and extending the capabilities of Modula-2 even more.
TcpPlots: Plotting Library Modul
TcpPlots is another prominent graphics library in the realm of Modula-2. It offers a broad set of graphical primitives that come in handy when you need to plot data. Along with standard shapes like lines, circles, and rectangles, TcpPlots also provides complex data structures like histograms and scatter plots. The versatile library extends Modula-2's capabilities by providing both 2D and 3D plotting functionalities.
Visualisation of Mathematical Functions with Modula-2
This isn't a separate tool, but rather a technique using the logic of the Modula-2 programming language to illustrate mathematical functions. With precise computation and graphical accuracy, Modula-2 allows for the stringent deviation of mathematical functions, which can be informative for learning purposes, mathematical research, or software debugging.
Aglet Graphics Library
Aglet Graphics Library (grlib Modula-2) is another important graphical library for Modula-2. It provides a variety of basic forms such as lines, circles, rectangles and also complex figures. These forms can be used to build graphical interfaces in Modula-2, creating the potential for graphical plotting and data visualisation.
Note that for use any of these libraries, you would need to import the corresponding module in your Modula-2 code.
Third Party Tools
Since Modula-2 is not extensively used or as much advanced in terms of data visualization compared to modern languages such as Python or R, sometimes it may be beneficial to leverage third-party data visualization tools. Export your data from Modula-2 into a compatible format (like CSV or JSON), and then import it into tools like Tableau, Microsoft Power BI or even Excel for analysis and visualization. This accommodates more complex data manipulation and provides a user-friendly interface for creating interactive plots and dashboards.
To conclude, while Modula-2 alone might not have extensive options for data visualization, several libraries extend its graphical capabilities. And, when combined with third-party tools, Modula-2 can effectively be used for graphical plotting and data visualization tasks.