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 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.