Bufkit version 9.06

June 2009

BUFKIT is a forecast profile visualization and analysis tool kit.  It is targeted as a training and forecast tool for the decision makers of the National Weather Service.  It is also available to anyone that would like to explore very high vertical and temporal resolution model output for specific point locations.

What New:

1) Ease of Use
-  Configuration is now available through a entry form.
-  Screens can be resized to any display 1024x768 or greater

2) Data Retrieval
-  Integrated into Bufkit
-  TCL/TK is no longer required
-  Can automatically create time-date stamped archive profiles when downloading profiles
-  URL lists support comments and color coding

3) Integrated Training
-  Over 2 hours of training videos are integrated into Bufkit
-  On-station training focal points can integrate locally produced training
-  (note: WDTB is putting a lot of research into “inside the forecast circle” job aids.  The Bufkit training “Five-minute University” is one result of that research.  A special thanks to educator Don Novello.)

4) Meteorological Displays
-  Hail Growth Zones
-  Hail CAPE
-  Elevated Hail Cape

5) Time processing
-  Local time is computed on a profile-by-profile basis
-  User can fine tune local time displays by site
-  Supports forecast time steps less than 1 hour (e.g. 30-min or 15-min WRF forecast intervals)

6) Linux Support
-  Now fully functional running under Linux (using WINE)

Installation

1) Requirements
-  Operating System:  Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Linux (with WINE)
-  Memory: 512 MB or more
-  Storage: 
— Program: 10 MB
— Profiles: about 0.4 MB per profile
-  Display:  1024x789 or greater.  Additional enhanced support for dual Displays

2) Download the Bufkit install package by clicking the Link Below

DOWNLOAD Bufkit-906-install.zip

3) Unpack the zipped file and extract the three install files (Bufkit.CAB, SETUP.LST, and setup.exe).  Note where you are unpacking these files.  Locate the unpacked file “setup.exe”

4) Run the Set.exe install program.

5) Once installed you can run Bufkit by clicking on START>PROGAMS>BUFKIT>BUFKIT. 

6) You may want to click on the “Set Up” button on the upper left of Bufkit to configure Bufkit to your computer’s time zone, model type, favorite sites, etc.

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Bufkit Questions

Bufkit 9.07 Technology Preview

If you have Bufkit-related questions, uou can contact me using the WDTB Chat Room on NWS Chat or via e-mail.

Ed Mahoney
Warning Decision Training Branch
Training Division
National Weather Service
NOAA

31 July 09