     [file version.texi not included]

README file for the SINGULAR distribution
*****************************************

SINGULAR is a Computer Algebra system for polynomial computations with special emphasize on the needs of commutative algebra, algebraic geometry, singularity theory and polynomial system solving. For a more detailed overview of SINGULAR, see

     http://www.singular.uni-kl.de/Overview/

SINGULAR version 2 is generally much faster than any previous version of SINGULAR, due to a rewriting of major parts of the SINGULAR kernel (e.g., the kernel has a new memory manager and a new polynomial arithmetic), and due to new and better implemented algorithms (e.g., for computing resolutions and determinants).

Besides these internal changes, SINGULAR version 2 offers many new features and functionalities (which were already partly included in the 1-3 series). E.g., a native Windows distribution, an Emacs user interface, a new help system, 16 new libraries, etc.

See the files

NEWS
     for news and changes of this version

COPYING
     for license information for SINGULAR

INSTALL
     for installation instructions, troubleshooting tips, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

More and up-to-date information about SINGULAR is always available from

     http://www.singular.uni-kl.de.

We very much welcome any comments, questions, and bug reports, especially comments about our new version. Please contact us at

     singular@mathematik.uni-kl.de.

GOOD LUCK and ENJOY! Your SINGULAR team.