GNU Data Language

GNU Data Language (GDL) is a free, open-source data analysis and visualization environment compatible with IDL and PV-WAVE.

Description

GNU Data Language (GDL) is a free, open-source, incremental compiler designed as a compatible alternative to IDL (Interactive Data Language) and PV-WAVE. It functions as a robust tool for data analysis and visualization, particularly useful in fields like astronomy, geosciences, and medical imaging. Developed and maintained by a collaborative team, GDL supports various data formats (netCDF, HDF4, HDF5, GRIB, etc.) and offers extensive library routines for numerical computation, data visualization, signal/image processing, operating system interaction, and data input/output. The language itself is dynamically-typed, array-oriented, and vectorized, incorporating object-oriented programming features. GDL provides integrated debugging tools and allows GUI-based software development through built-in widgets. It further includes a Python bridge, enabling interoperability between GDL and Python code.

Features

GDL is a dynamically-typed, array-oriented, and vectorized programming language with object-oriented capabilities. Key features include extensive library routines for data analysis, visualization, and signal/image processing. It supports a wide array of data formats such as netCDF, HDF4, HDF5, GRIB, and various image formats. Graphical output is supported via X11, PostScript, SVG, and z-buffer terminals, allowing saving plots in multiple raster formats. Integrated debugging tools and built-in widget functionality streamline development. A Python bridge facilitates interaction with Python code. GDL is designed for cross-platform use (Linux, BSD, OSX, Windows).

Benefits

GDL offers significant cost savings as a free and open-source alternative to proprietary software like IDL and PV-WAVE. Its cross-platform compatibility (Linux, BSD, OSX, Windows) ensures broad accessibility. The extensive library of routines streamlines data analysis and visualization tasks, enhancing productivity. The support for numerous data formats and output methods facilitates versatile data handling and presentation. The integrated debugging facilities simplify code development and troubleshooting. The Python bridge enables seamless integration with the broader Python ecosystem. The active community ensures ongoing support, development, and maintenance.

Links

• Home: https://gnudatalanguage.github.io/