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Displaying VRML |
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Displaying VRML Files. In order to view VRML files, you must have a special plug-in installed in your browser. There are versions available for virtually any computer, operating system or browser including PCs, Macintoshes, and Linux based computers. Here are some links to browsers for various computers:
Settings. Most plug-ins have settings that allow you to control the VRML image appearance. Normally, you access these setting by right clicking on the VRML image. By adjusting the settings, you can often improve the quality of the image. For example, with Cortona plug-in switching to the "R98 Renderer" can improve the quality of transparency in an image.
Image Size. The cave images can be fairly large. If you have a slow Internet connection, it can take several minutes for the image to load. Like wise, be aware that if post large images on the internet, it may be difficult for people with slower connections or slower computer to view the cave.
Performance. When your browser displays these cave images, it must process a lot of information. For example, in order to draw the image of Fulford Cave, it must draw, shade, light and shadow 5,000 polygon surfaces. For this reason, faster computers are generally better. This is particular true of very large caves. With caves such as Wind Cave or Lechuguilla were the passage lengths approach 100 miles (160km), only the fastest computers will give satisfactory performance. For this reason, you should choose your subjects carefully.
Posting Your Own VRML Images. It is very easy to post your own VRML images on the net. First, you must generate your own VRML Cave image as described in other sections of this document. Once you have created the VRML file, you just upload it to your web page area and then insert the following block of code into your HTML file:
<EMBED SRC="secret.wrl" TYPE="model/vrml" WIDTH="439" HEIGHT="275" VRML_SPLASHSCREEN="FALSE" VRML_DASHBOARD="FALSE" VRML_BACKGROUND_COLOR="#CDCDCD" CONTEXTMENU="TRUE">
Entering The Code. To use this code, enter it exactly as written into the HTML for your web page, substituting the name of your VRML file for "secret.wrl". The code must be entered into the raw HTML form, which means that you cannot just drop it into the web page editor display. You must use the "View HTML" or "View Source" option in your web editor.
More Information. For more detailed information about using VRML in web pages, click here.
Using Your Browser As A Viewer. Once you have installed a VRML plug-in in your browser, you can use it to view any VRML file, including files that are not posted on the internet. You just click on the file and your browser will display the image.
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