FAQ

Q1. How can I manage to learn to use this code on my own?

A1. After download, follow instructions in tisc/doc/README file in order to compile. Then go to tisc/demo and try the examples there to ensure that the code is working properly. Then read carefully tisc/doc/tisc.info.txt (this file) and tisc/doc/template.PRM and try to experiment modifying the *.PRM files of the demos. Then learn how to build *.UNIT input files from the examples and using the explanations in tisc/doc/tisc.info.txt. Make sure you did all this before contacting the author!

Q2. I have compilation errors, is there a problem in the program?

A2. I tested TISC only in some UNIX operative systems such as Linux (Ubuntu), Mac OSX 10, and Solaris (from SUN). Most probably you have a problem with the compilation options or with the libraries. Try to ask help among your colleagues to succeed in the compilation.

Q3. I compiled the program, but I never managed to run it, and I always get 'segmentation fault' errors.

A3. This probably means you have some incompatibility between some of the functions called in TISC and the ones available in the libraries of your operative system. You have to edit the code and search for those problems. You will need the help of someone around you who has experience in programming or compiling C programs.

Q4. Can you help me to solve the problems I have to run TISC?

A4. In general, I try to answer the questions you send by email, but usually i cannot say much more than what you just read in this file. Technical support on the compilation process is not provided. . Because my interests are in the scientific use of TISC and its application to geological scenarios, I will be pleased to help you with any problem you have during the development of a model and will be pleased to establish a scientific collaboration.

ON THE DEFINITION OF TECTONIC UNITS:

Q5. Is it possible to stop a fault and then reactivate it again?

A5. You can stop a fault at a given time by using the time_stop parameter in the *.UNIT file. To reactivate it, repeat the same fault geometry in another *.UNIT file with the velocity you wish. See doc/template.UNIT to get the possible parameters in every *.UNIT file.

On the GMT Output

Q6. My GMT postscript doesn't look right, what's wrong?

A6. Try adjusting your gmtdefaults in the project directory (check the current settings with "gmtdefaults -L"). This will fix most issues.