Introduction

This site documents the usage of "psana python", which is software that can be used to analyze LCLS data.  Using this simple python, it is possible to analyze LCLS data in parallel on hundreds of cores, both offline and in real-time while data is being taken.  To see a simple 17-line introductory script, and a list of other features click here.

How to Use This Site

The first tip is on how to find the information you need. This is what we suggest:

• note the document tree on the left side bar of the Portal. The tree is designed to help you find your way to the right document. If you won't see the tree then it's most likely turned off. That' easy to fix - just look on the top-right side of this page and notice a little icon (left to the 'Search' box) which will toggle the visibility of the side bar.
• most pages in this site list topics to review next, as well as additional related topics
• if you know what you're looking for use search on the sidebar just above the tree. One can also use the tree structure to get yourself familiar with the general structure of the documentation. This may make your search more efficient.
• some pages on this site will redirect you (if needed) to other Confluence 'spaces' (sites). Note that the 'Search' will not propagate to those other spaces

Steps to follow to begin using psana-python

• Get yourself a computer at PCDS

• Learn about psana-python here
• Learn which computing and storage resources are available for LCLS users

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• You may also need to look through our 

  • Note that data files of older experiments may not be available on disk and you may need to order then to be restored from tape before you can do your analysis.

How To Get Help with Analysis Tools

We advise sending your questions to our "hot line" e-mail: pcds-help@slac.stanford.edu. One of our experts will contact you.

In case if you run into some problem with our software then it would be helpful if you provided the following information:

• on which machine you're seeing the problem
• which software are you using
• which data (files, etc.) you're trying to read, or where you're writing your results (intermediate files, etc.)