TeX notation filter

The TeX Filter converts TeX code into GIF images. It uses a binary program called MimeTeX - versions for Linux (glib2.3), Windows and Mac OS X are included in the Moodle distribution.

To use the filter the resource should include a TeX expression delimited by double-dollar signs. Example:

   $$ sqrt( x + y ) $$

Template:Moodle 1.6

Moodle 1.6 adds the ability to use the full TeX formatting facilities (MimeTex only provides a subset). Three external binaries are used to render the images which may need setting up for your system. The filter will first check for a LaTeX renderer (Ghostscript is also required for this method) and failing that will use the simpler MimeTeX binary included in the Moodle distribution. LaTex permits the whole range of syntax, whereas MimeTeX only supports a mathematical subset.

Settings Page

The TeX filter settings page are primarily intended to adjust the operation of the LaTeX renderer. The defaults for the three path settings are selected according to the detection of the operating system on which Moodle is running. These are simply suggested common values - Moodle does not check that the binaries actually exist at these locations.

LaTeX preamble

Enables the LaTeX preamble to be specified. The default should work for most users, but you may need to change it to support non-latin character sets etc. Please see the LaTeX documentation for further details.

Transparent colour

This should be set to your normal text background colour. The default setting is #FFFFFF (i.e., white).

Density

This setting effects the size of the resulting image.

Path of latex binary

Path to standard latex binary.

Path of dvips binary

Path to standard dvips binary - generally distributed as part of a LaTeX system.

Path of convert binary

Path to standard convert binary. This is distributed as part of the Ghostscript system.

Documentation