What does HDF stand for?

Hierarchical Data Format

A file format for storing multiple types of graphical and numerical data and trans-ferring them between different types of machines, together with a library of functions for handling such files in a uni-form way. NCSA developed and supports the file function and library and has placed them in the public domai Hierarchical Data Format files are supported on most common types of computers. The format can easily be extended to accommodate additional data models. The library functions have both FORTRAN and C interfaces.