Fall Quarter 2000

This course introduces the student to computer applications for the visualization of information. Algorithms, data structures, graphics primitives, and graphics standards are discussed in addition to hardware aspects of interactive computer graphics. Topics such as two- and three-dimensional transformations, graphics databases, and clipping algorithms are presented. Laboratory exercises using workstations and industry-standard graphics packages provide opportunities for students to develop interactive graphics algorithms and applications. (prereq: CS-285) (3-3-4)

Objectives

On successful completion of this course, the student will:

• Understand computer graphics hardware, algorithms, and applications;
• Understand the design of graphical user interfaces;
• Understand the importance of standards such as the X Window System and Motif;
• Understand and be able to apply concepts of object-oriented programming, inheritance, polymorphism, and event-driven systems;
• Be able apply data structures to the management of computer graphics entities;
• Be able to use reference materials to gain knowledge of an unfamiliar software system (e.g., X Window System);
• Be able to implement multi-module software systems incorporating components developed by others;
• Be able to clarify and document software requirements when specifications are initially incomplete or ambiguous;
• Understand the need for extensive internal software documentation, and be able to provide it.

The above course description and goals were taken from the official course description.

General Course Policies

Please review the general course policies webpage.

Textbook

Computer Graphics C Version, 2nd Ed., by Donald Hearn and M. Pauline Baker, Prentice-Hall, 1997.

Recommended Reading

Programming with Qt, Dalheimer, O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1999.

The Definitive Guide to the X Window System Vol. 2, O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1992.

The X Window System in a Nutshell, O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1992. (out of print)

Reference

Building OSF/Motif Applications: A Practical Introduction, M. Sebern, Prentice Hall, 1994.

The Definitive Guide to the X Window System Vols. 1-10, O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 1992.

Web Resources

• Qt documentation
• X Windows -- A Concise Description (Tim Love)
• Lots of X links
• Introduction to X Windows -- R.B. Rodger
• Starting Programming with the X Windows System

Oral Presentation

Each student will be required to give one five minute oral presentation.

My Schedule

Grading

Tentative Schedule