The main new features of Release 10.0 focus on reducing simulation time for large
models. Some beta testers have reported time savings of 50% or even 70% -- your mileage
may vary !
Faster solution of larger models
Most new Windows PCs have 2 or even 4 processors -- and support up to 8GB of RAM.
Release 10.0 helps you make use of these advances:
Parallel processing. If you have a dual- or quad-core PC, and wish to solve a model
by extrapolating from 2 or 3 multi-step calculations, GEMPACK can carry out two or three
of these calculations simultaneously. This may enable you to solve the model
significantly more quickly.
Intel Fortran compiler supported. GEMPACK now allows you to use the Intel Fortran
compiler. Indeed, if you are purchasing a new compiler, we recommend it: it seems to
produce faster-running EXE files. In addition, it allows you to produce either 32-bit or
64-bit EXEs (see next point).
64-bit TABLO-generated programs. Previously GEMPACK supported the Lahey compiler,
which produces 32-bit EXEs. These cannot use more than 2GB of memory - restricting the
size of your model. GEMPACK now allows you to make a 64-bit EXE, as long as you have the
Intel Fortran compiler and are running a 64-bit version of Windows.
Better re-use of pivots. For some time GEMPACK has supported pivot re-use during the
LU phase of solution. The new approach allows pivots to be re-used more frequently,
saving time in multistep simulations.
RunDynam/RunMONASH can simultaneously run 3 Jobs.
Sparse format for Header Array files. This option can in some cases greatly reduce
the size of HAR files.
Other Enhancements
Support for Windows Vista.
A Condensation Information File which could help you choose which variables to
substute or omit.
New built-in functions: to RAS a matrix; and for the Log-Normal Distribution.
More friendly install procedures.
AnalyseGE now lets you inspect the linearized form of your levels equations.
Whilst developing GEMPACK 10, Ken Pearson has constructed an automated testing system
to detect bugs. His partially-solar-powered quad-core PC repeats thousands of simulations
weekly to check that new errors have not been introduced. We think that GEMPACK 10 is the
most reliable version yet.
Ordering or Upgrading
Price details are listed here. Current subscribers to
GEMPACK's "annual payment" scheme will automatically receive the latest version without
charge. Previous purchasers under the "single payment" scheme are entitled to an upgrade
price. Substantial discounts are offered to universities and to users from lower-income
countries.
Free Trial
You can freely download the Limited Executable-Image of GEMPACK 10 from here -- it comes with a 3-month trial licence.