===========================================================================

FinITE v0.98b now available.

FinITE, the Finite automata Interactive Theory Exploration program,
was designed by 2 Worcester Polytechnic Institute undergraduates as
part of their Major Qualifying Project in Computer Science.

FinITE is a computer theory visualization program designed to help
students in theory classes get a better handle on abstract theory
concepts.  It does this by providing students with a point-and-click
interface with finite automata.  Simulating finite automata operation
and automating several complex automata algorithms, FinITE allows, and
hopes to encourage, users to explore the operation of finite automata
at new levels.  By visualizing theoretical machines, FinITE hopes to
break down the barriers that students traditionally build between
themselves and theory.

FinITE is unique in that it focuses purely on finite automata (NFAs and
DFAs) and not on Turing Machines or Push-Down Automata.  This focus
allows a more in-depth exploration of the machines (FinITE includes
commands to minimize a DFA and convert an NFA into a DFA) and will help
students at an early point in their experience with theory, as most
students learn finite automata before any other theoretical machine.

FinITE was designed under Visual C++ and runs under Microsoft Windows.
It takes advantage of color but does not require it.  A mouse is
required.  FinITE takes up less than 500K on your hard drive or can
be run from a floppy.  It has the standard Windows interface, including
context-sensitive help.

The authors are seeking input from YOU.  FinITE is available for anonymous
ftp from ftp.wpi.edu in the directory /FinITE.  Information on FinITE is
also accessible from the Web, at http://www.wpi.edu/~leppa/projects/FinITE.
The authors encourage all interested users to try the program out and
mail them back with any input they have, be it bug reports, questions, or
comments and suggestions.  All those who try the program and mail back
information will be given credit in the program for helping in the
testing of the package.

Summary:
        o FinITE v0.98b now available for anonymous ftp at
                ftp.wpi.edu /FinITE
                http://www.wpi.edu/~leppa/projects/FinITE.html
        o Runs under Microsoft Windows, color or monochrome
        o Designed to help students in theory classes
        o Authors seeking beta testers

Authors:

        Michael P. Lepore, leppa@wpi.wpi.edu
        David K. Spencer, dspencer@wpi.wpi.edu

===========================================================================

