For the first part, I think you need to post some code so we have a better idea what you are trying to do. There are 3D plots you can use but what do you mean by elevation string and what kind of problem are you having?
As for the TCP/IP, you can send data for the different modes via different ports.
As for the laser stuff, what exactly do you mean by varying intensity within a line? An intensity plot should work for you with a grayscale color range, if I understand what you mean.
I have seen programs before that can do continuous screen captures of your monitor and save them off. Is that what you are looking for?
Randall Pursley