Question 1

How do I install httpgd on Windows?

Accepted Answer

Install from CRAN using install.packages('httpgd'), or from GitHub with remotes::install_github('nx10/httpgd'). Check the system requirements documentation for any C++ library dependencies needed on your OS.

Question 2

Can httpgd work with R Shiny apps?

Accepted Answer

Yes, httpgd can integrate with Shiny by serving plots via its HTTP API, allowing real-time updates in dashboards without blocking the Shiny server session. However, you'll need to handle the web server setup within your app.

Question 3

What's better for interactive plots: httpgd or Plotly?

Accepted Answer

httpgd is ideal for embedding live R base or ggplot2 plots with async viewing in IDEs or custom apps, while Plotly offers more built-in interactive features like hover tools but may require different integration methods. Choose based on your need for embeddability versus rich client-side interactivity.

Question 4

How to export high-resolution PNGs from httpgd?

Accepted Answer

Use the export functionality via the HTTP API or interactive viewer to save plots in PNG format with configurable resolution settings. The API documentation provides details on parameters like width, height, and DPI for fine-grained control.

Question 5

Is httpgd faster than the X11 graphics device?

Accepted Answer

httpgd excels in async rendering and multi-client scenarios, reducing blocking, but may have higher per-plot latency due to HTTP overhead. For single-user, local display without web needs, X11 might be faster for immediate rendering.

Question 6

How to secure the httpgd server in production?

Accepted Answer

Configure the server with network restrictions (e.g., binding to localhost), use authentication if exposed, and monitor logs. The documentation covers best practices, but you'll need to implement additional security measures based on your deployment environment.

Question 7

Does httpgd support plot history in batch scripts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the interactive viewer includes history navigation, but for batch use, you can access plot states via the API. However, managing history programmatically requires extra coding compared to traditional static file outputs.

httpgd

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