Spin dynamics simulations - A powerful method for the study of critical dynamics

Spin-dynamics techniques can now be used to study the deterministic time-de pendent behavior of magnetic systems containing over 10(5) spins with quite good accuracy. This approach will be introduced, including the theoretical foundations of the methods of analysis. Then newly developed, improved tec hniques based upon Suzuki-Trotter decomposition methods will be described. The current "state-of-the-art" will be evaluated with specific examples dra wn from data on simple magnetic models. The examination of dynamic critical behavior will be highlighted but the extraction of information about excit ations at low temperatures will be included.