Tutorials/Before Getting Started

1 Introduction

Actually, this is more of a disclaimer than an introduction, because:

1. This page aims to give you, the reader, a good sense of direction when it comes to using OpenFOAM technology.
2. This page will not explain any specific details about how to use OpenFOAM and any Forks and Variants is has (which is why we'll refer to it as OpenFOAM technology).
3. This page is an attempt at making you, the reader, better prepared on how to get started on using OpenFOAM technology.

Requirements before you continue reading:

1. Be aware that OpenFOAM technology is open and free as a technology and as in freedom, as described by the Free Software Foundation: What is free software?
2. This does not mean that it's cost-free. The primary cost associated to using OpenFOAM technology is Time... and since time is money, that's where its real costs reside.
3. OpenFOAM and any and all of its variants and forks are bound by the GNU General Public License. It's advisable that you get a bit familiar with what this allows you to do or not, as described here: Frequently Asked Questions about the GNU Licenses

2 1. Names and References

The following are the primary references when it comes to OpenFOAM technology:

• The official OpenFOAM website is www.openfoam.org and is maintained by the OpenFOAM Foundation.
• The community foam-extend website is foam-extend.org and is maintained by the community that uses OpenFOAM technology and by Wikki Ltd. For more details: OpenFOAMWiki:Community_Portal

Beyond this, there are several forks and variants, which are documented here: Forks and Variants - including the details on what a fork and variant is in this context.