Frequently Asked Questions about CSIM17

1. What is CSIM17?
CSIM17 is a toolkit for use with C or C++ programs to create process-oriented, discrete-event simulation models of complex systems. CSIM17 is distributed in the form of an object module library together with C or C++ header files and example files.

2. What platforms are supported?

3. What is the pricing?
The license fee for the first library for a single platform and single language is $450; the license fee for each additional library ordered with the first library is $100.

4. What are the licensing terms?
Basically, CSIM17 is licensed under the terms of a single-user license. However, on a multi-user server, all users can access the library. There are provisions for sublicenses for distributing software which contains the CSIM library.

5. Where did CSIM17 come from?
CSIM was developed at MCC, starting in 1984, as part of the parallel processing and database machine projects. It was patterned after ASPOL, developed by MacDougall at CDC. Starting in 1986, in response to numerous inquiries, MCC initiated a program of selling CSIM to any organization that requested it. During the period 1986 - 1994, over 300 copies were sold to over 160 different organizations, worldwide. Starting in 1994, Mesquite Software obtained a license from MCC to market, support and enhance CSIM.

6. What do people do with CSIM17?
They build simulation models of systems. We don't know what all of these systems are. Some that we have heard of include:

7. Has CSIM17 been used in education settings?
Most definitely. It has been used both in classroom use (supporting courses and topics in simulation) and in many research projects. There is special pricing for educational use.

8. What about graphics and CSIM17?
We are working on enhancements to enable models to communicate with users with a graphical interface. The emphasis is on "ease of use"

9. What about support?
CSIM17 is supported by Mesquite Software. Inquiries and problems are handled via telephone or e-mail. Technical support is free for either 90 days (one year if the license agreement is signed and returned). Support can be purchased for $45.00 per year.

10. What are the limitations?
CSIM17 is written to handle large models efficiently. Models with several thousand active processes and resources have been developed and used. Obviously, lack of main memory can be a problem.

11. What sets CSIM17 apart from other simulation packages?

12. What is the future of CSIM17?
Mesquite Software is committed to marketing and supporting CSIM17. In addition, there will be successors, with new features and capabilities. Mesquite Software is planning a family of simulation products, with CSIM17 as a focus.

13. What about getting pre-built models?
Good question. Right now, there is no mechanism in place to collect or develop models which be distributed to other users. Suggestions are welcome.

14. What documentation is available?
Each order is accompanied by the CSIM17 Users Guide, and a manual entitled Getting Started with CSIM17 (C or C++ Version) and an installation guide.

Supported platforms:

For further information, contact: 

Mesquite Software, Inc.				Tel: 800-538-9153 or 512-305-0080
3925 West Braker Lane				Fax: 512-305-0009
Austin, TX 78759-5321, USA			E-mail: hds@mesquite.com