This standard is intended for use with climate data, and was designed with data generated by GCMs particularly in mind. Although this is specifically a netCDF standard, we feel that most of the ideas are of wider application. Our main purpose is to propose a clear, adequate and flexible definition of the metadata needed for climate data. Interconversion of the metadata between files of different formats will be facilitated if they are based on similar ideas. In addition, all Unidata recommendations are supported here unless noted to the contrary.
Comments indicate the places where there are differences between the standards.
Comments given in emphasised type and CDL examples given in slanted typewriter type are not part of the standard. Note that examples typically show only the details relevant to the point under discussion, and hence may be incomplete with respect to the provisions of the complete standard. Successful transmission of data depends upon the receiver of the file having software that will correctly interpret it. For this reason, a strategy that is as conservative as possible in the use of attributes and encoding techniques will best promote portability of data. This standard also refers to the udunits standard supported by Unidata.