About This Guide
This guide includes an overview of the program and describes in generic terms how you can define a system, set up and perform simulations, and then visualize the results. There is also a section to help you troubleshoot your simulation.
The guide is primarily for users already familiar with Thermo‑Calc and for those who intend to use Console Mode. The Graphical Mode version is integrated into the Thermo‑Calc desktop and its functionality is primarily described in the Thermo‑Calc documentation.
Which Mode Should I Use?
The Diffusion Module (DICTRA) is available in both Graphical Mode and Console Mode, although Console Mode has a couple of more advanced features.
Before you start using this guide, it is recommended that you review the Thermo‑Calc documentation and become familiar with using both modes. Also see Graphical Mode vs Console Mode to give you an overview of the differences. Understanding the capabilities of each mode will help you during the design of a simulation.
The two modes can be run simultaneously, but there is no communication between them. What you do in Graphical Mode does not affect the state of the Console Mode session and vice versa. This can be important to remember if you create a simulation in one mode and then decide to switch to the other mode.
What Do I Do Next?
How you proceed depends on your experience with the software as well as your level of expertise with diffusion simulations. In addition to this guide the following supplemental documentation and training resources can help you learn how to use the Diffusion Module (DICTRA).
Documentation Resources
You can search or browse all the documentation available either from within Thermo‑Calc (press F1 or go to Help → Online Help) or browse the PDFs included with your installation by going to Help → Manuals Folder).
Read more about the Diffusion Module (DICTRA) on our website. There is also a Getting Started with the Diffusion Module (DICTRA) page available. If you are in Thermo‑Calc, press F1 to search the help to learn about the available settings included with the Add-on Module.
The Role of Diffusion in Materials: A Tutorial is available for download on our website. It is intended for engineers interested in using the Diffusion Module (DICTRA), as well as students learning about the role of diffusion in materials. It is designed to be useful at many levels, from undergraduate studies to someone with a PhD and experience in a related field.
Training and Video Tutorials
Some of the Graphical Mode examples have video tutorials. Watching those videos may help you with your simulation in Console Mode. You may also decide to enroll in a training course or use the self-paced Learning Hub.
Many of our Graphical Mode examples have video tutorials, which you can access in a variety of ways. When in Thermo‑Calc, from the menu select Help → Video Tutorials, or from the main My Project window, click Video Tutorials. Alternately, you can go to the website or our YouTube channel.