Author Description

Ed Angel provides an introduction to basic OpenGL 1.2 commands in a non-mathematical manner that covers the "how to" and gets readers programming quickly with OpenGL. This primer offers complete coverage of a subset of the OpenGL Application Programmers Interface (API). Case studies apply the commands and examples introduced in each chapter. A discussion of common pitfalls is also included in every chapter. Ten chapters cover: an introduction; two-dimensional programs; interaction and animation; three-dimensional programs; transformations; lights and materials; bits and pixels; texture mapping; curves and surfaces; and some advanced features of OpenGL. This concise introduction to OpenGL 1.2 is ideal for those looking to program computer graphics using OpenGL. It succeeds both as a companion to a book introducing computer graphics principles, and as a stand-alone beginners' guide to OpenGL for programmers with a background in computer graphics.