What Are the Best Tips for Installing OpenGL®?

The Open Graphics Library (OpenGL®) program may seem difficult to install, but installing OpenGL® is usually rather simple. Users should check for OpenGL® systems with Instant Ignition or operating systems (OSs) that come with OpenGL® automatically installed. While the programming environment module does not need to be included when installing OpenGL®, it is often useful for various upgrades. Unless users enjoy running every function from the command line, installing the OpenGL® Utility Library (GLUT) will help by making buttons and windows. A command should be used after installing OpenGL® to ensure the program has successfully installed.

Many OSs come with OpenGL® automatically installed, meaning the user will have to do very little work to get started with the program. This means the user should run a search on the computer to see if OpenGL® comes pre-installed. If not, another alternative to make installing OpenGL® easier is to get the Instant Ignition module. This automates most of the OpenGL® installation, so the user may only need to click a few buttons to complete the installation.

Programming environment is a module the user can opt to install during the installation process and, while it usually takes a bit longer, it normally is best to have. The user may think otherwise, because he or she may not plan to do any custom programming, which is what this module is made to do. Most OpenGL® upgrades are entered through this environment, so this module should help keep the program up to date. Most modules made by other users also are installed in this way, which can prove useful if these modules add new features or automate graphic-rendering tasks.

Another module that can be added when installing OpenGL® is the GLUT module. If the user prefers using the command line with OpenGL® because he or she knows these commands, then GLUT may be detrimental. Most users will prefer GLUT because it adds tools and windows to the program, making it easier for users that are unfamiliar with command line functions.

After installing OpenGL®, a certain command should be used to ensure the program is correctly entered. The user should go to the command line and enter the command “verify_install.” OpenGL® will respond by going through the program, checking the installation files, modules and other portions of the software to ensure there is nothing flawed about the installation. If any problems exist, OpenGL® will report them and the user can correct these issues.