This topic introduces several additional advanced ParaView functionalities. Substantial computer programming ability is required in order to take advantage of some of these features. The material describing these features are intended as introductions; we include links to additional references and tutorials. The features covered are:

• Plugins are compiled software libraries that can be imported into ParaView to extend its functionality. Numerous plugins are available for download and competent developers can write their own plugins to implement specific behavior.
• Catalyst is a mechanism by which ParaView can communicate with an ongoing simulation program in situ. The simulation can send data to ParaView while it continues to execute, allowing the user to interact with the simulation while it is ongoing.
• OSPRay is an advanced software renderer that is included in ParaView. When enabled, it allows any computer to include shadows and advanced lighting effects in the renderings that ParaView produces.