Still from Surface Browser, 2003, 2004

Installation

Download

Please note: the version of the libraries used in this app appear to be incompatible with os x / intel 10.4. I'm aiming to rebuild the app with the later libraries in the upcoming months. Should still work with PPC macs and PCs. Requires Java* (see java.com if unsure) and OpenGL support from your video card (eg. modern gaming card).

Note: This will raise a security warning regarding unsigned code. This code is self signed to allow the program to display images from the internet in realtime. Certification is far beyond the budget of the current project, so it's therefore up to you whether you install this software. The installation will install Java for OpenGL binding library (JOGL) which does not raise a security warning.

Information on running

Toolbar Interface
If you see the URL document icon highlighted, type in an Internet address such as www.yahoo.com and hit 'enter'. If the image search icon is highlighted, type in a word - or words - as an image search and hit 'enter'. Surface Browser then uses Google to pull up masses of pictures which it then processes.
Click the button to switch between modes. If there is an error loading the page, the text will turn red.

Tunnel
up/down arrows: tunnel speed
space: resume speed

Sphere
arrows: rotate sphere
enter: choose selected link. Images with links appear highlighted with tunnel, and link text will appear in the address bar.
A/Z: zoom up to/away from surface
space: stop rotation

Please write with any problems, suggestions, interest.. will try fix or post workarounds to a FAQ here.

Refer back for information, pics about the piece.

* If not installed, Java(min required ver.1.4.2) is available at java.com or via Software Update on Mac OSX 10.3+.
Also, please note that the work is best viewed on higher end video cards but will display on lower specification cards.