Pearson's Crystal Data: Frequently Asked Questions

Please note: The list of "Frequently asked questions" (FAQ) is still in an early state. So we would like to point you also to the function list or to the brochure. See links on the left side.

Q(uestion): How do I install Pearson's Crystal Data on a network?
A(nswer): This task is rather simple:
1. Install the Pearson's Crystal Data on one PC (the server) using the installation CDs you have obtained. Note that it is not possible to run Pearson's Crystal Data directly from the CDs!
2. Open the Windows Explorer on the server PC, right-click on the program directory of Pearson's Crystal Data (e.g. "C:\Program Files\Pearsons Crystal Data"), and share the program directory using an appropriate name (e.g. "PCD") (the network users do not need write access).
3. On a client PC, simply display the contents of the shared server directory (e.g. "PCD") in the Windows Explorer, and double-click on "PCD.exe" to run the Pearson's Crystal Data.

Q: ...I was wondering how it [Pearson's Crystal Data] relates to the classic 1991 2nd Edn of the Intermetallics Handbook. My interest is Intermetallic Compounds, usually containing a rare-earth element. Does the latest PCD contain all the information found in the 1991 Handbook?
A: Yes the CD-ROM contains all the data published in the classic 1991 edition. In addition the literature years from 1989 up to 2004(5) have been added. The coverage in Intermetallics is very comprehensive, in addition also the Inorganics have been added. (PV)

Q: How can I define another wavelength, e.g. Co rather than Cu, for a calculated powder pattern? Where is the dialog bar mentioned in the online help?
A: The dialog bar is not shown in the rather small powder pattern preview below the entry report (the usual view) but in the entry data full view. To change to this full view, simply double-click into the powder pattern, which opens the full view with four tabs "Data sheet" etc. You will find the settings for wavelength (and more) in the grey dialog bar left of the reflection list and diffraction diagram. Choose another wavelength from the drop-down list or enter a wavelength manually, then press the Enter key to update the powder pattern.