Installation and Reporting

Installation

To install Maxima-CAS, please visit the official website for the latest version and updated instructions:

Maxima-CAS Official Website

The installation process varies depending on your operating system, with Maxima-CAS available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Additionally, the software is accessible on any lab workstation located on the second floor of the GC building. You can use Maxima-CAS in each lab session there.

Reporting

All labs need to be done using wxmaxima, which provide a convenient text base interface for document structure, computing and visualization.

  1. Accessing wxMaxima
    • To access wxMaxima in the computer lab, follow these steps:
      1. Log into the computer lab using your ORU credentials.
      2. Select the ORU - EGRMAT server from the available options.
      3. Once on the server, navigate to the Academic Program folder and open the wxMaxima application.
  2. Saving Your Work on a Workstation
    • While working on each lab, it is crucial to frequently save your progress. Since you are using a terminal PC in the lab, all files and data will be erased when you log out.
    • To prevent loss of work, consistently save a copy of your lab report in the Dropbox folder provided on D2L (Desire2Learn). This ensures your work is securely backed up and accessible after you log out.
    • Save your progress after completing significant sections of the lab, or at least every 15-20 minutes, to minimize the risk of data loss.
    • Your lab report should be saved in the Maxima file format with the extension .wxmx. The final submission should be preceded by the string FINAL, e.g., FINAL_Lab1_Calc1_YOURLASTNAME_mmddyy.wxmx.
    • This format ensures that all your equations, calculations, and graphs are properly preserved.
  3. Submitting Your Lab Report (D2L)
    • Once you have completed your lab work, be sure run correctly by pressing Ctrl + R, if everything looks correctly, submit your FINAL .wxmx file to the designated Dropbox folder on D2L.
    • Ensure that your file is correctly named and includes any necessary identifying information (such as your name or student ID) as specified by your instructor.
  4. Completion and Submission Deadlines
    • Each lab is intended to be completed during the allocated lab time.
    • If you are unable to finish within this period, you may complete your work outside of lab hours.
    • All submissions must be made no later than the start of the next scheduled lab session. Late submissions may not be accepted or could incur a penalty, as per course policy.