MIN-OPT 2000
An interactive instructional computer
program to simulate control and display of optical properties of minerals as
seen with a petrographic microscope
To see an enlarged view, click on one of the images.
WHAT MinOpt 2000 CAN DO FOR YOU MinOpt 2000 is able to simulate optical properties of minerals as seen in thin section. A user can change a large number of optical parameters such as orientation, thickness, and refractive indices, then instantly observe changes in double refraction, birefringence, and extinction. Representations of vibration directions, indicatrices, and interference figures all change as optical conditions vary. An unlimited number of optical conditions common to isotropic, uniaxial, and biaxial "generic" minerals can be displayed as well as the specific optical properties of many common minerals. At any time, the position of a mineral can be seen on an interference color chart, appropriate to previously established thickness and retardation. Becke line phenomena can be simulated for all combinations of optical properties, orientations, and selected indices of immersion oils. Options are available for determination of composition of plagioclase feldspar of ordered or disordered structural state, twinned on the albite or Carlsbad laws (or their combination). MinOpt 2000 is especially helpful when controlled by an instructor in classroom projections and when students are able to simulate optical properties on their own computers. This enables beginners to quickly visualize three-dimensional interactions of complex optical variables, and to apply these skills in manipulating the petrographic microscope with minimal wasted time and effort.
To run MinOpt 2000, YOUR SYSTEM IS REQUIRED TO HAVE a windows operating system (95 or later) and a monitor that will deliver more than 256 colors. Otherwise, not all birefringence colors can be represented accurately. A computer and monitor that will display a full screen of 640 x 480 pixels is recommended (but not required) because that was standard resolution when this program was produced. The usual advantages of large memory and fast processing system apply.
TO OBTAIN A FREE DOWNLOAD of a fully operational copy of MinOpt 2000, click on THIS LINK. The name of the file to be downloaded is "setup.exe" and is approximately 5 Mb in size. You will be able to designate where the file is to be located; after download is complete, activate the file and follow the installation instructions. MinOpt 2000 carries a valid copyright. You are permitted to use MinOpt 2000 without limitation except that it is not to be altered in any way or sold or traded for profit by anyone or to anyone.
