Key reminders for using QuickView and other tools in the family

Two modes of use

QuickView can be used in two modes: a new-viz mode (for starting a new visualization) or a resume mode (for resuming an analysis). Further details can be found on the toolbar description page.

Connectivity files

Since E3SM's horizontal grids are unstructured meshes from ParaView's perspective, connectivity files are needed in addition to the simulation data files. Further details can be found on the documentation pages describing the connectivity files and the toolbar.

Consistency between connecitivity and simulation files

One of the often encountered causes of error when loading files in QuickView is that the grid described by the connecitivity file does not match the grid in the simulation data file. Please double check when you run into a loading error.

The LOAD VARIABLES Button

Most buttons, sliders, and selection boxes in the UI apply their effects immediately upon user interaction. The only exception is variable selection: After variables are chosen for the first time following file load or after the selection is changed, the user must click the LOAD VARIABLES button at the top of the "Select Variables" control panel for the new selection to take effect.

Show/hide control panels

Most of the buttons in the vertical toolbar are toggles for showing or hiding the corresponding control panels. These toggles have 1-key shortcuts--see cheat sheet here. Detailed descriptions of the control panels can be found on this page.

Viewport Layout

QuickView is designed to present multiple variables simultaneously in an informative way. Users can rearrange the individual views (i.e., contour plots) in the viewport and resize them.

Furthermore, if a user saves a state file after these adjustments, they can later resume their analysis with the customized arrangement.