This archive contains answers to questions sent to Unidata support through mid-2025. Note that the archive is no longer being updated. We provide the archive for reference; many of the answers presented here remain technically correct, even if somewhat outdated. For the most up-to-date information on the use of NSF Unidata software and data services, please consult the Software Documentation first.
>From: "Erik Noble" <address@hidden> >Organization: University of Colorado >Keywords: 200601021610.k02GAdMl000928 IDV Mac Hi Erik- >Institution: University of Colorado >Package Version: IDV Beta >Operating System: MAC OS Tiger >Hardware Information: 12 inch powerbook G5 (2006- brand new) >Inquiry: Dear Unidata, >I am a graduate student here at the >University of Colorado in the Evironmental Studies Department. Also, I ma a fo > rmer NCAR SOARS protoge. > >I need to learn how to use IDV for data analyses of NCAR reanalysis data. > >I have spent all weekend trying to install IDV on my brand new Apple Powerbook > G5 laptop. I am not familiar with Java. > >I have already downloaded the MAC OS IDV installer as well as all of the Jar f > iles. Yet, I am vry confused from what to do after this step. The readme file > s in some of the Java files are confusing as well. > >Could Unidata please help me to be able to just start and use IDV? When you install the IDV on a Mac using the Mac Installer, you specify the folder where you install the IDV. In that folder, there is a shell script called runIDV. Unfortunately, the Mac does not associate that file with the "sh" shell program, so when you click on it, you will get an error message that says it can't find the application to use with that file. You can do one of two things: 1) Open a terminal window, change to the directory where you installed the IDV and run sh ./runIDV or 2) Follow the instructions in the Known Problems document to create a launcher for the desktop: http://www.unidata.ucar.edu/software/IDV/docs/userguide/Bugs.html#faq1_cat5_17 Don Murray NOTE: All email exchanges with Unidata User Support are recorded in the Unidata inquiry tracking system and then made publicly available through the web. If you do not want to have your interactions made available in this way, you must let us know in each email you send to us.