Flash Alternative: Processing Version 1.0
This past weekend has produced a version 1.0 of Processing, a Flash alternative product that runs under GPL.
With the help of some simple code, Processing will create 2-D and 3-D models and animations (Figure 1). These you can export as Java applets into websites. The tool can provide many creative outlets in that it is easy to use. A number of examples have been collected.
New in version 1.0 is the reintroduction of the P2D two-dimensional renderer. Line smoothing isn't quite 100%, although it's standard with P2D and P3D renderers. The inherent OpenGL renderer uses full-screen anti-aliasing and ignores smooth() and nosmooth() methods. Processing provides a new vector class, PVector, that creates a tuple for easier 3-D data storage.
The integrated vector graphic library Candy introduces the loadShape() method and a new Pshape object. These functions currently work best with the JAVA2D renderer, while upcoming Processing versions should more fully enhance the vector graphic functions. The full list of feature changes are here.
To get a glimpse of Processing, best to download from here. All you need is to do is import the program in an editor and play it (Figure 2), with no compiling necessary. Numerous sample programs are available from the application's File | Examples menu. A File | Export creates a Java applet of the program that you can simply FTP to a website.
The following code, for example, creates a gray cube that you can move around with the mouse (Figure 3):
import processing.opengl.*;
void setup() {
size(400, 400, P3D);
frameRate(30);
}
void draw() {
background(200);
translate(mouseX,mouseY,0);
color c1 = color(180);
fill(c1);
stroke(128);
box(150);
}
Gallery pictures:
Figure 1. With Processing you can easily and quickly create and animate 2-D and 3-D objects.
Figure 2. Simply import a program in the editor and click the Play icon.
Figure 3. A few lines of code can create a cube that you move around by mouse click.
Gallery (3 images) |
---|
![]() ![]() ![]() |
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you've found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Fedora 39 Beta is Now Available for Testing
For fans and users of Fedora Linux, the first beta of release 39 is now available, which is a minor upgrade but does include GNOME 45.
-
Fedora Linux 40 to Drop X11 for KDE Plasma
When Fedora 40 arrives in 2024, there will be a few big changes coming, especially for the KDE Plasma option.
-
Real-Time Ubuntu Available in AWS Marketplace
Anyone looking for a Linux distribution for real-time processing could do a whole lot worse than Real-Time Ubuntu.
-
KSMBD Finally Reaches a Stable State
For those who've been looking forward to the first release of KSMBD, after two years it's no longer considered experimental.
-
Nitrux 3.0.0 Has Been Released
The latest version of Nitrux brings plenty of innovation and fresh apps to the table.
-
Linux From Scratch 12.0 Now Available
If you're looking to roll your own Linux distribution, the latest version of Linux From Scratch is now available with plenty of updates.
-
Linux Kernel 6.5 Has Been Released
The newest Linux kernel, version 6.5, now includes initial support for two very exciting features.
-
UbuntuDDE 23.04 Now Available
A new version of the UbuntuDDE remix has finally arrived with all the updates from the Deepin desktop and everything that comes with the Ubuntu 23.04 base.
-
Star Labs Reveals a New Surface-Like Linux Tablet
If you've ever wanted a tablet that rivals the MS Surface, you're in luck as Star Labs has created such a device.
-
SUSE Going Private (Again)
The company behind SUSE Linux Enterprise, Rancher, and NeuVector recently announced that Marcel LUX III SARL (Marcel), its majority shareholder, intends to delist it from the Frankfurt Stock Exchange by way of a merger.