This file contains general information about DataFit Version 5.0
by Oakdale Engineering.

For the most up to date release notes and version information, look at
our home page on the web. The URL is: http://www.oakdaleengr.com

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Table of Contents:

Section 1 - Thank you
Section 2 - Description and Capabilities of DataFit
Section 3 - Machine Requirements
Section 4 - Purchasing DataFit
Section 5 - Automatic Installation using SETUP.EXE
Section 6 - Contacting us
Section 7 - Removing DataFit from your machine
Section 8 - Association of Shareware Professionals
Section 9 - License, Distribution and Disclaimer
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Section 1 - Thank you!

Thank you to everyone who has registered, especially those of you
who have provided us with useful feedback. You are keeping us
going! Keep watching the home page, http://www.oakdaleengr.com
for new releases and information.
_______________________________________________________________________

Section 2 - Description and Capabilities of DataFit

DataFit is a science and engineering tool that simplifies the tasks
of data plotting, regression analysis (curve fitting) and statistical
analysis. What sets DataFit apart from similar curve fitting and
regression programs is its ease of use.  With the combination of the
intuitive interface, online help and wide range of features, it is a
tool that is used effectively by both beginners and experts. Main
features of DataFit include:

- Intuitive interface - most regression software packages take a
  programming type approach, meaning that you tell the program what to
  do in a pseudo-code programming language. This approach forces you to
  remember many commands, and the proper command syntax. With DataFit,
  the program is driven by a well-designed graphical interface, which
  makes it much easier to learn and use. Remember, the goal your are
  striving for is accurate regression analysis, not learning a new
  proprietary programming language.
- Online help and "tool-tip" text - With context sensitive help and
 "tool-tip" text, the answers to your questions are always close by.
- Straightforward data entry - Data can be entered by typing it into
  a standard spreadsheet interface, by importing it from ASCII files
  created by other applications, or by cutting and pasting it from other
  windows based applications.
- Multi-dimensional regression model capability - DataFit can solve
  regression models with up to 9 independent variables. 
- Built in regression models - there are currently 54 two-dimensional
  and over 100 three-dimensional nonlinear regression models built into
  DataFit. The built in nonlinear regression models are commonly used
  in scientific, statistical and engineering applications.
- User defined regression models - If regression models you need are
  not built in to DataFit you can define them yourself. User defined
  regression models can have up to 20 parameters, or variables, and you
  can use whatever variable names you want to use in your model without
  "pre-defining" them. This makes defining your own regression model as
  simple as typing in the equation. You can also assign rule-based
  initial estimates to the models so that the initial estimates don't
  need to be assigned each time you run a regression problem. An
  additional feature is the ability to specify the analytical
  derivatives for user defined models (optional).  
- Robust solver - DataFit utilizes the Levenberg-Marquardt method with
  double precision to perform nonlinear regression. 
- Various solution options - You can perform linear OR nonlinear
  regression on one model at a time that you choose from a list, groups
  of models (built in model groups, or define your own), or all of the
  models available with one mouse click. The built in models are grouped
  together based on the number of parameters and the general shape of
  their curves. If you continuously solve the same models over and over,
  you can create your own group consisting of the models you choose.
- Automatic solution ranking - As regression models are solved, they are
  sorted automatically according to the goodness of fit criteria you
  specify (Residual Sum of Squares, Correlation Coefficient, DOF
  Adjusted Correlation Coefficient or Standard Error). If you aren't
  an expert and aren't sure which model you should use, DataFit helps
  you make this decision.
- Solution Log - DataFit tracks each step in the regression process and
  reports it to the user in the solution log. If a model fails to solve,
  the solution log contains some diagnostics to help you figure out the
  problem.
- Detailed regression results - DataFit reports the following
  information about each solved regression model automatically without
  additional user action:
    - Number of observations						
    - Number of missing observations								
    - Number of nonlinear iterations performed						
    - Sum of Residuals						
    - Average Residual						
    - Residual Sum of Squares						
    - Standard Error of the Estimate						
    - Coefficient of Multiple Determination (R2)						
    - Proportion of Variance Explained						
    - Adjusted coefficient of multiple determination (Ra2)						
    - Durbin-Watson statistic						
    - Coefficient values, Standard Error, t-ratio and Prob(t)
    - Confidence Intervals (68, 90, 95 and 99 percent levels)
    - Variance Analysis (ANOVA)	
    - Data Table, including entered data, calculated data, residual, 
      percent error, minimum residual and maximum residual.
    - Regression model plots
    - Residual Probability plots
    - Residual Scatter plots			
- Postscript quality plotting capability - Create 2D and 3D plots of
  raw data and/or regression models by simply selecting the desired
  information from a list of available data.  Each plot is completely
  customizable, including fonts, ranges, line colors and styles, error
  bars, visibility, etc.  You can also graphically compare the results
  of different models and/or data on the same plot window. Plots can be
  saved along with all of their customization, or copied to the windows
  clipboard for pasting into other applications.
- Data calculator (currently 2D only)- Manipulate raw data or regression
  models in a built in data calculator.  The data calculator can perform
  over 70 mathematical and statistical operations on curves, discreet
  data, or numbers. The calculator can also perform some special
  functions, such as FFT's or creating a data table based on an equation
  you type in.
- Automatic source code generation - Export source code to utilize a
  model of your choice in a program that you have written. You can
  export self-documented code in either BASIC or C.
- Non-graphical execution - DataFit can be run non-graphically from
  other programs. Simply create a configuration template (either on
  your own or through the interface), save it, and call DataFit from
  your program. You can choose handshaking options, such as DDE
  (Dynamic Data Exchange), progress indicators, and message box
  displays.
- Direct link to the World Wide Web - From the DataFit interface, you
  can connect directly to Oakdale Engineering's home page on the web
  for product updates and technical support. You can also submit bug
  reports or enhancement requests.
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Section 3 - Machine Requirements

DataFit version 5.0 is a 32 bit application, supported on 
Windows '95, and Windows NT version 3.51 or later.  

Memory Requirement - At least 4 MB RAM
Disk Space Requirement - Approximately 5 MB
Math coprocessor is not required, but will be utilized if present.

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Section 4 - Purchasing DataFit

You may evaluate DataFit free of charge for 30 days. If, after the 30 
day evaluation period, you choose to continue using the software, you 
must purchase and register it. When you register DataFit, you will 
receive a code that enables additional features in the software and 
become eligible for priority support. You will also be able to obtain 
free upgrades of the program through our Web page with which you can 
use your current registration code, until the next major release. 

PRICE FOR NEW USERS:

Site and World license prices include one printed manual 
and installation diskettes. Single user licenses can purchase 
hardcopy documentation for $15.00.

License Type            Product                 Price (per copy)
Single User License     DataFit 2D or 3D        $70.00 
Single User License     DataFit 2D and 3D       $100.00
Single User License     User's Manual           $15.00
Site License            DataFit 2D or 3D        $350.00
Site License            DataFit 2D and 3D       $500.00
World License           DataFit 2D or 3D        $2500.00
World License           DataFit 2D and 3D       $3000.00

Note: Single User License is for use by a single person, for 
personal use only.  Site License is for use by anyone at a 
company or organization at a single location.  World License 
is for use by anyone at a company or organization at any 
location.

A 2D license enables the use of DataFit for solving single 
independent variable regression models. 3D license enables 
the use of DataFit to solve regression models with 2 to 9 
independent variables. The purchase of the combination 2D 
and 3D license enables the use of DataFit to it's fullest 
capability.

UPGRADES:

Upgrades from previous versions of the same license type. 
YOU MUST HAVE A CURRENT LICENSE:

License Type          Product            Price (per copy)
Single User License   DataFit 2D or 3D   $20.00 
Single User License   DataFit 2D and 3D  $20.00
Single User License   User's Manual      $15.00
Site License          DataFit 2D or 3D   $150.00
Site License          DataFit 2D and 3D  $180.00
World License         DataFit 2D or 3D   $500.00
World License         DataFit 2D and 3D  $800.00

Universities using the software for classroom instruction 
may contact us for reduced rates on individual student 
licenses.

HOW TO PURCHASE:

Registrations are taken through Kagi Payment Service, which 
accepts cash, checks, money orders, VISA, Master Card, 
American Express, Discover, Diners Club and First Virtual.

Note: A company wishing to purchase a site or world license
can do so with a purchase order with a payment term of Net 30 
days.  Payment of the order must be in the form of a US check 
or money order. To set up a purchase order, call or fax us at 
(412) 693-3200. You may also send email to 
sales@oakdaleengr.com.

You can register the software in any of the following ways:

1.  Register from the World Wide Web.  You can register online 
    with either of the following methods.

    a)  From the DataFit Help menu, click on Register DataFit and 
        choose Register Online. If a default web browser is 
        properly configured on your system, this will launch it 
        and connect you directly to the Kagi Online Payment Service.  
        There you will be given explicit instructions on how to make 
        your payment.
    b)  Point your web browser to http://order.kagi.com/?JA.  This 
        is the URL for the Kagi Online Payment Service. Again, you 
        will be given explicit instructions on how to make your 
        payment.

2.  Register by Fax, Email (electronic mail) or Postal. Use the
    Register program provided with the software to make payments. 
    We use KAGI Payment service, which accepts different payment
    methods, including checks, mail orders, credit cards and 
    prepaid invoices.  
    You can run the register program with any of the following 
    methods:

    a)  From the DataFit Help menu, click on Register DataFit and 
        choose Email, Fax or Postal from the menu.  This will run the 
        register program that gives you explicit instructions on how 
        to make your payment.
    b)  Click the Windows Start button, and then point to Programs.  
        Click on the Oakdale Engineering folder, then click the 
        Register program.  Again, this will run the register program 
        that gives you explicit instructions on how to make your 
        payment.
    c)  From the Windows Explorer, Double Click the Program Files 
        folder, then double click the DataFit folder. Once the 
        DataFit folder is opened, double click on Register.exe. As 
        before, this will run the register program that gives you 
        explicit instructions on how to make your payment.

<< PLEASE INCLUDE THE REGISTRATION FORM WITH YOUR PAYMENT >>

3.  Register by Telephone

    You can register DataFit over the telephone with a credit 
    card by calling Kagi Payment Service at (510) 658-5244. 
    Orders can be placed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    DO NOT CALL THIS NUMBER FOR DATAFIT TECHNICAL SUPPORT. 
    THIS PHONE NUMBER IS FOR REGISTRATIONS ONLY!

    IMPORTANT! When calling, please specify the following 
    to insure you are registering the license you really want.  
    This will insure that you get the correct registration 
    codes without any additional delays.

    a)  Specify that you want the product DataFit.
    b)  Specify a Single User License, Site License or World 
        License (see below for a description of each).
    c)  Specify one of the following Program Codes, depending 
        on which license you want:

        License Type     Program Code
        2D Only License  JADA
        3D Only License  JADB
        2D/3D License    JADC
        2D Upgrade       JADD
        3D Upgrade       JADE
        2D/3D Upgrade    JADF
        User's Manual    JADG

4.  If you live in the US or Canada you may also mail us your 
    check or money order (US ONLY) directly, payable to 
    John A. Gilmore, at the following postal address:

    Oakdale Engineering
    C/O John A. Gilmore
    23 Tomey Road 
    Oakdale, PA 15071
    USA

PLEASE INCLUDE THE REGISTRATION FORM WITH YOUR PAYMENT.
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Section 5 - Automatic Installation using SETUP.EXE

To automatically install DataFit for Windows on your hard disk:

1. If you have received the software from an archive in the form of a 
   .ZIP file, copy the contents of the archive to a temporary directory 
   and unzip the files. Copy the unzipped files to a floppy disk to keep 
   as a backup.  If you have received the software on a floppy disk 
   directly from Oakdale Engineering, the files will already be 
   unzipped. 

2. Place the disk in a floppy drive of your computer if you are 
   installing from the floppy disk.

3. Click on the Windows "Start" button and select Run... 

4. In the Run dialog box, type A:SETUP or B:SETUP, depending on the  
   drive used.

5. The Setup application will prompt you for additional information as 
   required.

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Section 6 - Contacting us

You can receive technical support whether you are a registered user or
not, however registered users receive priority response.  You can
obtain technical support in any of the following ways:

1) Email your question or problem via email to support@oakdaleengr.com.
   Email typically receives the quickest response.

2) Fax your question or problem at any time to:
  (412) 693-0320.  DO NOT FAX ORDERS OR REGISTRATION FORMS TO THIS
  NUMBER. THIS NUMBER IS FOR DATAFIT TECHNICAL SUPPORT ONLY!
  For unregistered users, this number is for Fax support only.

3) You can mail your question or problem to the following postal
   address:

   Oakdale Engineering
   C/O John A. Gilmore
   23 Tomey Road
   Oakdale, PA 15071
   USA


The URL for our home page is: http://www.oakdaleengr.com.
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Section 7 - Removing DataFit from your machine

If you are running Windows 95 or Windows NT version 4.x and want to
remove DataFit from your machine, do the following:

1.  Click on Start/Settings/Control Panel.
2.  Double Click the Add/Remove Programs Icon.
3.  On the Install/Uninstall Tab, click on DataFit in the list.
4.  Click on Add/Remove 

If you are running Windows NT version 3.x, Double Click the UnInstall
DataFit icon in the Oakdale Engineering program group.

Warning: Most of the files distributed with DataFit are shared files,
which may be used by other applications. These files should not be
deleted manually. Uninstalling DataFit as recommended above checks to
see if the shared files are used by any other program installed on your
computer and will not delete them if they are in use. If you delete
these files manually, your system may become unstable. The only files
that can be manually deleted safely by the user are the files copied 
to the application directory.

The files copied to the application directory (the directory you
specified when installing DataFit) are:

File            Description
DataFit.exe     The DataFit Executable File
Register.exe    The Register Executable File
DataFit.cnt     The DataFit Help Contents File
DataFit.hlp     The DataFit Help File
Register.hlp    The Register Help File
Engrsoft.htm    Local Web Page
ReadMe.txt      Read me file
TipOfDay.txt    Tip of the Day Text File
Tutor2D.dat     Data File for the 2D Tutorial
Tutor3D.dat     Data File for the 3D Tutorial

The following files are created during installation and execution 
of DataFit:

File            Description
DataFit.gid     DataFit Help Related File
St*Unst.Log     Installation Log File
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Section 8 - Association of Shareware Profesionals

We are proud to be a member of the Association of Shareware
Professionals (ASP). You can visit the ASP Home Page at
http://asp-shareware.org/.

Ombudsman Statement:

Oakdale Engineering is a member of the Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP). 
ASP wants to make sure that the shareware principle works for you. If you are unable 
to resolve a shareware-related problem with an ASP member by contacting the member 
directly, ASP may be able to help. The ASP Ombudsman can help you resolve a dispute 
or problem with an ASP member, but does not provide technical support for members' 
products. Please write to the ASP Ombudsman at 157-F Love Ave, Greenwood, IN 46142 USA, 
FAX 317-888-2195, or send email to omb@asp-shareware.org.

_______________________________________________________________________

Section 9 - License, Distribution and Disclaimer

License Agreement:

The trial version of DataFit is provided free of charge to 
the user for evaluation purposes only.  The evaluation copy 
may be redistributed to others for evaluation purposes, but 
it must not be altered in any way and cannot be redistributed 
as part of another system.

If you find this program useful and find that you are using 
DataFit, and continue to use DataFit after a 30-day trial 
period, you must make a registration payment. 

Distribution:

Anyone distributing DataFit for any kind of remuneration 
must first contact Oakdale Engineering at the address below 
for authorization. This authorization will be automatically 
granted to distributors recognized by the (ASP) as adhering 
to its guidelines for shareware distributors, and such 
distributors may begin offering DataFit immediately. However, 
Oakdale Engineering must still be advised so that the 
distributor can be kept up-to-date with the latest version 
of DataFit.

    Oakdale Engineering
    C/O John Gilmore
    23 Tomey Road
    Oakdale, PA 15071

DISCLAIMER

THIS SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED FOR EVALUATION ONLY, ON AN "AS IS" 
BASIS.  OAKDALE ENGINEERING DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES RELATING 
TO THIS SOFTWARE, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT 
NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR 
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.  NEITHER OAKDALE ENGINEERING 
NOR ANYONE ELSE WHO HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN THE CREATION, 
PRODUCTION, OR DELIVERY OF THIS SOFTWARE SHALL BE LIABLE FOR 
ANY INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES ARISING 
OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE SUCH SOFTWARE, EVEN IF 
OAKDALE ENGINEERING HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF 
SUCH DAMAGES OR CLAIMS.  THE PERSON USING THE SOFTWARE BEARS 
ALL RISK AS TO THE QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE OF THE SOFTWARE.
