Computer Graphics CAP4730 FAQ

Q. What will we learn in CAP4730?

A. The class will focus on 3D computer graphics, the stuff you see in movies and video games.

Topics include:

2D Transforms, Scan Conversion

3D Transforms, Lighting, Shading, Textures

Ray Tracing, Scene Graphs, Animation, Video Games, Advanced Topics (Multi-Texturing, Particle Systems, Interactivity, Research areas in Graphics)

 

Q. What will we NOT cover in CAP4730?

A. We will not cover image processing or editing (e.g. photoshop), 3d modeling (e.g. 3d studio max), or is this a package course (e.g. directx or maya)

 

Q. Is CAP4730 right for me?

A. The two main things that you should have before this class are:
 

1. Linear Algebra/Matrix theory - basic matrix mathematics.  Nothing hard core, but this class shouldn't be the first time you come across vectors, matricies, normals, etc.

2. Programming in C (or C++).  I've had students who only had Java, but they were very motivated (and already accomplished programmers).

#1 is really a must, #2 is a pretty good must.

 

Q. What do you assume from students coming in?

A. If this course interests you and you have the background, by all means enroll!  It will be the most fun course you'll take, I almost guarantee it.  I'll assign a project during the first week, and if you have trouble then you can always drop it then.

We assume no prior computer graphics knowledge.  We do assume the basic math and programming skills.

More questions?  please email me or drop on by (CSE E342)