[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]

20060103: IDV - Parameter Tables

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 Note that the archive is no longer being updated. We provide the archive for reference; many of the answers presented here remain technically correct, even if somewhat outdated.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.

  • Subject: 20060103: IDV - Parameter Tables
  • Date: Tue, 03 Jan 2006 10:17:21 -0700

Hi Sean,


I have two grib files of two different models.  One produces derived parameters 
and the other does not.  The one that produces derived parameters has had its 
parameter table embedded into the IDV 1.2 distribution by Unidata.  The other I 
am not sure if it has.

I am not sure if the parameter tables would cause this problem or is it 
something else.
Most likely the one grib file has parameter names that the IDV does not recognize. The derived quantities are created by looking for particular parameter or parameter groups based on names. e.g., dewpoint looks for some parameter called "TEMP" and 
one called "RH"
These names are really canonical names. We use an alias mechanism to say that, for example, 
the parameter name "foo_rh" is really an "RH". You can define your own
aliases for these canonical names through the alias editor:
http://www.unidata.ucar.edu/software/idv/docs/userguide/tools/AliasEditor.html


Question 2:

It was mentioned that documentation would be provided in the 1.2 release on how 
to add/customize your own parameter tables.  I could not find the documentation.
Sorry, we'll add that in. By default the idv looks in ~/.metapps/DefaultIdv for the files: 
grib1lookuptable.lst
and:
grib2lookuptable.lst
I am cc'ing this message to Robb Kambic who can better describe the format of those files.
Robb - do you have documentation somewhere on this and/or can you help Sean out? 
Thanks.

-Jeff