Online Computer Terms Dictionary - O

Open Graphics Library

<graphics, library> (OpenGL) A multi-platform software interface to graphics hardware, supporting rendering and imaging operations. The OpenGL interface was developed by Silicon Graphics, who license it to other vendors.

The OpenGL graphics interface consists of several hundred functions operating on 2D and 3D objects, supporting basic techniques, such as modelling and smooth shading, and advanced techniques, such as texture mapping and motion blur. Many operations require a frame buffer. OpenGL is network-transparent, and a common extension to the X Window System allows an OpenGL client to communicate across a network with a different vendor's OpenGL server.

OpenGL is based on Silicon Graphics' proprietary IRIS GL.

OpenGL WWW Center.

Mesa GL (PD implementation).

(1996-09-30)