FilmStar Plot Module

FSPlot images can be copied or saved as .wmf (metafiles), .bmp (bitmap) or .png (web bitmap). Metafiles are publication quality vector images which print at high resolution. Bitmaps are recommended for web pages. For a metafile sample, download fsplot.wmf (11K) and copy and paste the image into Word or Excel.

FSPlot Dialog

Annotations

Annotations are graphics and text placed directly on a plot. These are especially useful for quality control graphs where customers often specify pass/fail criteria in geometric terms - for example, the spectrum must be within certain lines.

As illustrated here, there are a variety of annotations. In addition, up to 12 line legends (not shown here) are possible. Legends and annotations are stored on disk with the FILM Archive file (DESIGN) or Scan Parameters file (MEASURE). For a further understanding of FSPlot options, click here (FsPlotOptions.xls, 304K).

FSPlot Annotator

Annotations (lines, symbols, text, axis labels, etc.) are easily added by clicking on the graph to bring up the FSPlot Annotator. This dialog demonstrates adding a horizontal line T = 50%. Made a mistake or prefer a different color? Click on the annotation to edit or remove it.

Computed Annotations

As shown here, annotations can include automatic results calculated from theoretical or measured spectra. This is very powerful and not available in software supplied by spectrophotometer manufacturers.

The development of computed annotations was inspired by watching technicians manually mark up measured spectra. The technique relies on setting PlotAnnotation$ in FilmStar BASIC (click to view code).

FSPlot Formulator

The FSPlot Formulator supports arithmetic operations on data columns. This is typically utilized to show detail in pass and rejection bands on the same graph. It can also be used to compute and plot averages or differences. Once a plot formula is developed it is retained and automatically applied to new graphs. The formula used in this plot is

C=B;B=if(A>420&A<520,100*B,if
(A>650&A<850,100-(100-B)*20,B))

Web Graphics

Th FSPlot properties editor provides unlimited options when Bitmap/Gradient
mode is selected. A logo or watermark can be added. Graphics matching a
company's color and font scheme give a more professional appearing website.

FSPlot properties

True blue motif

Earth tones?

Contour Plots

FilmStar DESIGN supports 3D contour plots as illustrated here.

Reflectance vs. Angle
2D Contour

Reflectance vs. Angle
3D Contour (Excel)