MODEPLUS - A PROGRAM FOR COMPUTER-ASSISTED MODAL MEASUREMENT

Point-counted modal analyses are an essential part of many petrologica l studies. Point counting is tedious work which delivers relatively sm all returns for the time invested. The introduction of a microcomputer to the system allows a permanent record of the point-counted data to be retained. In addition, it allows supplementary data to be accumulat ed on each grain measured (e.g. grain size and shape, and intergrain r elationships, e.g. cumulus or intercumulus in an igneous cumulate rock ). For the computer to be integrated properly into the system, it also must drive the mechanical microscope stage, which is done via an RS23 2 port.