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6.2. 3D Effects
A computer screen is two-dimensional (2D) and until recently most applications were developed in a 2D layout.
However, advancements in technology fuelled the demand for more life-like on screen visuals, as in three-di- mensional (3D) modelling and games. The operating system needs to perform complex calculations to display 3D images in 2D. Consequently, to reduce the burden on the operating system and increase the speed of appli- cations, 3D accelerator cards were developed, which use the graphics processor on the graphics card instead of consuming valuable CPU resources. Almost all modern graphics cards have a built-in acceleration to display 3D.
Ubuntu can utilize the 3D capabilities of a graphics card for desktop effects. An example of these can be seen with Compiz Fusion – spinning cubes, floating windows etc. Compiz Fusion is a fun application used to liven up your desktop experience and make it 3D in appearance.
The effects are enabled by default and can be controlled from the Appearance menu. From here the desktop effects can either be completely disabled or enabled. The number of effects can be controlled via the normal effects and extra effects setting.
If a graphics card does not have 3D capabilities or support for 3D is missing from the Linux drivers for the card, you will be notified that Desktop effects could not be enabled.