First time using CERN libraries - help

[beamerxl]

I am starting a new particle physics class that requires us to use the CERN program libraries (http://cernlib.web.cern.ch/cernlib/" ). I've been to the website and am quite lost. I don't know what files I need to get from the website, or how to implement them into a program. It's been about three years since I've used FORTRAN, and even then the class I took was very basic (we never covered anything about how to incorporate program libraries). It also seems to be implied that I will need a UNIX/Linux workstation to do this, which I could access through our physics department, though I have never used UNIX/Linux before either, so if it is possible to do this on my Vista64 or Mac, that would be preferred.

Our first assignment is some basic random number generation, though I'm sure we will be tackling harder problems as the semester goes on.

Can anyone with experience in FORTRAN, UNIX/Linux, or CERNLIB offer some help? Basically, my primary questions are:

• Can I do this in Vista64/Mac or do I need to get an account on our Linux machine?
• If I need to use UNIX/Linux, what do I need to know to get started with a programming assignment?
• What files do I need to download from the CERNLIB website, and what do I do with them?
• How would I go about integrating these functions into a FORTRAN program?

Thanks in advance for any help you can give.

 

[shoehorn]

I haven't used CERNLIB before but I can't quite understand why you've got difficulty in figuring out what to do. Right there on the CERNLIB front page is a downloads link, together with the rather helpful statement

The recommended way to install CERNLIB is from the preinstalled distribution kits but it is also possible to INSTALL it from the source files.

Clicking on the link, one finds that there exist clearly indicated precompiled binaries of the CERNLIB libraries for all manner of platforms, including Windows and OS X. This is precisely what you want. Indeed, the installation instructions at the top of the page are for Windows XP.

As to how you go about actually using the libraries, a good place to start would be to read the documentation, all of which is on the project homepage.

 

[quicknote]

Hello,

I understand that you are starting a new particle physics class and are required to use the CERN program libraries. I can offer some guidance to help you get started.

Firstly, it is possible to use CERNLIB on a Vista64 or Mac operating system, but it may be easier to use a Linux workstation. If you have access to one through your physics department, I would recommend using that for your assignments.

To get started with a programming assignment on a Linux machine, you will need some basic knowledge of the UNIX/Linux operating system and how to navigate the command line. There are many resources available online to help you learn these skills, such as tutorials and forums.

To start using the CERN libraries, you will need to download the appropriate files from the CERNLIB website. You can navigate to the "Download" section and select the libraries that are relevant to your assignment. Make sure to download the files onto your Linux machine.

Once you have downloaded the files, you will need to integrate them into your FORTRAN program. This will involve linking the libraries with your code and ensuring that the correct paths are set. There are detailed instructions available on the CERNLIB website, and you can also seek help from your professor or fellow students who may have experience with FORTRAN and CERNLIB.

I hope this helps you get started with using CERNLIB for your particle physics class. Remember to also utilize resources such as online tutorials and forums, and don't hesitate to reach out to your professor or classmates for assistance. Good luck with your assignments!