Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives At the completion of this subject students should understand the technology of graphical user interfaces (GUIs); be familiar with GUI applications development; and be aware of current projected hardware and software for GUI environments (desktop microcomputer-based systems).
Synopsis Introduction to elements of computer graphics. History, hardware components, commercial use of GUIs. Concept of pixels, text and graphics modes. PC environments: desktop applications development. GUI principles and components. Windows and VISUAL BASIC concepts, processes. Window Manager, APIs concept. Introduction to Windows graphics programming. Object-oriented and raster-based GUI. Mouse drivers, Windows, APIs, DLL libraries, run-time dynamic linking. GUI styles and implementations. User Interface Management Systems basics, shared and external control methods. Current and future hardware for GUI environment.
Assessment Examination (2 hours): 50% + Practical work: 50%