RATS Overview

RATS (Regression Analysis of Time Series) is an econometrics/time-series analysis software package. It can be used for analyzing time series data, developing and estimating econometric models and forecasting. It is designed for both interactive and non -interactive (batch) uses.

RATS is "Special Request Software" and therefore UITS only offers limited support for this software. Documentation is available in the Swain Hall Library, BUS/SPEA Library, Education Library, and the UITS Stat/Math Center. The UITS Stat/Math Center (81 2/855-4724 or email: statmath@iu.edu) can answer basic questions concerning RATS.

Note: If you are a student using RATS for a class exercise, questions about your class work should be directed first towards your class instructors.

Currently RATS is available on the UITS Research SP System (node aries05). Windows version is also available in the UITS Student Technology Centers.

RATS Program Functionality:

Breadth of Functionality: Excellent for time series

RATS is a comprehensive time series analysis and econometrics software package, suitable for a wide range of tasks. Some of RATS' capabilities include:

  • Multiple regressions
  • Seemingly unrelated regressions and three-stage least squares
  • Non-linear least squares
  • Two-stage least squares for linear, non-linear, and autocorrelated models
  • Maximum likelihood estimation including ARCH, GARCH and related models
  • Non-linear systems estimation
  • Generalized Method of Moments
  • Built-in hypothesis testing instructions
  • Logit and probit
  • Kalman filter
  • Consistent covariance matrices
  • ARIMA models
  • Vector autoregressions
  • Impulse responses
  • Variance decompositions
  • Transfer functions
  • Intervention models
  • Spectral analysis
  • Forecasting for time series and regression models
  • Exponential smoothing
  • Simultaneous equation models
  • Graphics
  • Cointegration Analysis: with the CATS module
  • X11 Seasonal Adjustment: with the EZ-X11 module

Reliability and Robustness: Good

RATS has very few known bugs at this point. Bugs are corrected in a speedy manner as soon as they are reported.

State of the Art: Fair

RATS regularly comes out with new versions and updates, ensuring that new techniques are incorporated in a regular manner.

User Friendliness: Fair

RATS is a command-driven application. Most common econometrics tasks, such as estimating regression models, forecasting data, and testing hypothesis can be handled with just a few simple commands. RATS also provides many other instructions that allow y ou to implement more complex tasks. This design makes it easy to perform many common tasks, while still providing a good deal of flexibility.

RATS Help Resources:

Network-based help: Poor

The Knowledge Base (KB) maintained by the UITS Support Center has answers to few basic questions asked about RATS. This KB may be searched using keywords (e.g., RATS). There is no local RATS User's Group at IU; howev er, RATS maintains a WWW site (RATS Vendor's Page) that includes user support.

Program's Help System: Poor

On-line help system in RATS is not available on UNIX machine. Windows version provides Windows-based on-line help.

RATS Program Availability:

RATS is available on UITS systems. For details, see the Statistics Software Availability page.

UITS may offer this software for personal and departmental purchases. See the Sales page for more information.

RATS Training and Support:

Document Availability: Excellent

A complete set of RATS documentation is available for reference at various Software Manual Locations and at the UITS Stat/Math Center. Documents may be purchased directly from the vendor (Estima, 1800 Sher man Ave, Suite 301, Evanston, IL 60201; (800) 822-8038).

Training Availability: Poor

There are no university sources of training for RATS. Those who want to get started with RATS may contact the Stat/Math Consulting.

User Group: No

There are no local user groups for RATS.

UITS consulting support: Limited support

RATS is categorized as a faculty sponsored software for support. That is, instructors who use this software for instruction are responsible for consulting support. However, limited consulting support is available from Stat/Math Consulting from 9 am to 5 pm (M-F) via phone, email, and for walkins. Appointment is recommended for walkin consulting.

Other consulting support: Fair

Since UITS is providing only limited support for RATS students using the software as part of their coursework should contact their instructors first for help. Registered RATS users can contact the vendor directly for help.