Research as it goes

This post summarizes my exploration of programs that can solve linear programming (LP) problems in Java using one of the standard solvers. I will keep updating it as I learn more about the solvers and ways to make them work. I have had a bit frustrating start on finding a thing that actually works. Here are the free resources that I tried: SCPSolver : The website says that this tool enables a java programmer to solve an LP in 5 minutes. The caveat is the solution doesn't work for 64 bit JVM. I must install a 32-bit JDK, but that impacts the way other components of my code work! Java ILP : A Java interface for integer and linear programs, but it requires installing a separate solver as well. It was frustrating because all these tools required me to install new software on my machine, which requires administrative rights on a UT machine. Hopefully, someone from our IT department will reply back to me soon. UPDATE: I finally had to resort to CPLEX, which is a pa...

This blog derives from my multiple failed attempts at trying to document my research ideas and keeping them all together in one place. I have tried Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, using a career journal, putting post-its on my computer, and covering the whiteboard in my room with things to keep on top of my head. They all work but to an extent. However, I have more hope that blogging my ideas on the internet will actually keep me more engaged. Here are the reasons why: Efficiency: I can create several posts without worrying about running out of space. I no longer need to create separate Word files for ideas during summer, ideas for my dissertation, ideas for paper submission etc. On a blog, they can all be in one compiled place. Visual appeal: I am a very visual person and I like to see how my ideas have evolved over time. A blog is a good interface for that. Great place to summarize: I have attended multiple seminars/courses/symposiums in the past and I always like to summar...