How to Use the Command 'matlab' (with examples)

MATLAB, short for MATrix LABoratory, is an advanced numerical computing environment developed by MathWorks. It offers a versatile platform to perform complex mathematical calculations, data analysis, algorithm development, and visualization. MATLAB’s scripting language, built-in functions, and interactive environment make it a staple in academia and industry for various engineering, scientific, and mathematical applications. Below are several practical use cases to help users harness the command-line features of MATLAB effectively.

Run MATLAB Without Splash Screen During Startup

Code:

matlab -nosplash

Motivation:

When starting MATLAB, users are typically greeted with a splash screen displaying program information and loading processes. While this may be useful initially, it can become cumbersome for regular users who value efficiency and seek a faster startup experience. Skipping the splash screen can save time, especially when MATLAB is launched frequently or repeatedly in a scripting or automated environment.

Explanation:

• matlab: This is the command to start the MATLAB environment from the command line. It signals your operating system to launch the MATLAB application.
• -nosplash: This option directs MATLAB to start without displaying the splash screen. This argument is purely for enhancing startup speed and reducing unnecessary visual distractions, allowing users to dive into their work immediately.

Example Output:

Upon executing the command, MATLAB starts up without displaying the usual splash screen. Users are taken directly to the command window or the main desktop environment, ready to begin computation immediately.

Execute a MATLAB Statement

Code:

matlab -r "matlab_statement"

Motivation:

Executing a MATLAB statement directly from the command line is useful for rapid calculations or actions without manually entering the MATLAB environment. Professionals often automate workflows or include MATLAB computations within larger scripts or software applications. This usage enhances productivity by automating routine calculations and processes.

Explanation:

• matlab: The command initiates the MATLAB environment.
• -r: This argument signifies a request to run a specific MATLAB command or script immediately upon startup.
• "matlab_statement": This is the actual MATLAB code or function you wish to execute. It should be enclosed in double quotes, allowing you to automate any operation – from a simple arithmetic calculation to more elaborate function calls.

Example Output:

Consider running the statement matlab -r "disp('Hello, World!')". The MATLAB command window will print:

Hello, World!

This output demonstrates that MATLAB executes the given statement and returns the expected result seamlessly.

Run a MATLAB Script

Code:

matlab -r "run(path/to/script.m)"

Motivation:

Running a MATLAB script directly from the command line enables batch processing, automated execution, and integration of MATLAB within a broader software system. It’s particularly advantageous when running time-consuming simulations or analyses that can be initiated remotely or processed overnight without manual intervention.

Explanation:

• matlab: This command launches the MATLAB environment from the command line.
• -r: Similar to the previous use case, this flag tells MATLAB to execute a specified script or command immediately after startup.
• "run(path/to/script.m)": This is the MATLAB command to execute a particular script. The run function, combined with the path to your script file, starts the execution of specified code contained within script.m.

Example Output:

Consider executing a script called calculation.m which calculates and outputs a matrix operation:

matlab -r "run('/home/user/calculation.m');"

If the script is designed to calculate and print the determinant of a matrix, the MATLAB window will display the numerical result of that computation upon completion. For instance:

The determinant is: 12.34

This confirms that the script executed correctly and produced the expected result.

Conclusion

Incorporating MATLAB command-line executions into everyday workflows can significantly enhance productivity. Whether bypassing the splash screen for a swifter startup, executing concise statements on the fly, or automating script execution, these command-line capabilities provide powerful tools for optimizing MATLAB usage in diverse environments. By mastering these use cases, users can streamline their workflows, save time, and leverage MATLAB’s computational power to its fullest extent.