Overview

JFLAP (Java Formal Languages and Automata Package) is a graphical Tool for the creation and simulation of four types of automata: finite automata, pushdown automata, and 1-tape and 2-tape Turing machines. Additional features include nondeterminism and transforming automata to other forms.
The mouse is used to draw the transition graph of the automaton on the canvas. The canvas is the large rectangular region which is initially blank. States are represented as circles, while transitions are labeled arcs connecting two states.
The states and labels of transitions may be moved about on the canvas once they have been created, to make the layout more eye-pleasing. See the Help on States and Transitions for more information.
Files can be loaded into JFLAP easily using the File button, and then selecting Open. Alternatively, to open directly a canvas with a Finite State Automaton when starting the program, type:

> java JFLAP -keyword [file name with or without the extension]
> (The keyword is "fa" for FSA's, "pda" for PDA's, "tm" for 1-tape Turing machines, and "ttm" for 2-tape Turing machines.)

If the file name is missing, or the file as given could not be opened, a blank canvas is opened.