Overview
ISO/IEC 9636-1:1991 is the first part of the international standard for Information technology - Computer graphics - Interfacing techniques for dialogues with graphical devices (CGI) - Functional specification. This foundational document provides an overview, defines the scope, and establishes the framework for the entire ISO/IEC 9636 series. It introduces key concepts such as the reference model for CGI, relationships to other international standards, and outlines both Foundation and Constituency Profiles for computer graphics interfaces.
The standard is maintained by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and is essential for ensuring interoperability and consistency in computer graphics systems. ISO/IEC 9636-1 does not include detailed functional descriptions; instead, it acts as a conceptual and technological roadmap for subsequent parts in the series.
Key Topics
- Conceptual Reference Model:
Defines the role of the Computer Graphics Interface (CGI) in providing a standard interface between device-independent graphics software and device-dependent graphical devices.
- Profiles:
Introduces Foundation and Constituency Profiles, enabling tailored implementations by allowing subsets of the CGI functionality for specific needs or user groups.
- Conformance Requirements:
Establishes minimum requirements for system compliance, covering implementation and client conformance.
- Relationship to Other Standards:
Articulates how CGI relates to standards such as GKS (ISO 7942), GKS-3D (ISO 8805), PHIGS (ISO/IEC 9592), and CGM (ISO 8632), as well as standards for data stream encodings and procedural bindings.
- Scope and Application Environment:
Discusses the placement of CGI within computing and managed display environments, including the limitations and responsibilities not assumed by the CGI standard.
- Design Principles:
Highlights criteria such as completeness, conciseness, consistency, extensibility, fidelity, implementability, orthogonality, predictability, and usability, to ensure robust and modular graphic interface systems.
Applications
ISO/IEC 9636-1 is designed for a wide range of stakeholders in the field of computer graphics, including:
- Graphics Software Developers:
Provides a standardized interface, facilitating the creation of interoperable graphics systems that remain compatible as new hardware devices are introduced.
- Device Manufacturers and Suppliers:
Guides the development of device drivers and hardware interfaces that conform to established CGI profiles, ensuring broad compatibility.
- Academic and Training Institutions:
Supports the development of consistent educational content in computer graphics concepts and application programming.
- Vendors and System Integrators:
Facilitates vendor independence and reduces maintenance costs by promoting modularity and software reusability across diverse installations.
- End Users and IT Managers:
Ensures efficient and reliable graphics capabilities within managed environments, promoting long-term protection of software investments.
Related Standards
ISO/IEC 9636-1 references and complements a range of international standards in computer graphics and information technology, including:
- ISO 646 - 7-bit coded character set for information interchange
- ISO 7942 - Graphical Kernel System (GKS)
- ISO 8805 - GKS-3D (Graphical Kernel System for Three Dimensions)
- ISO/IEC 9592 - Programmer's Hierarchical Interactive Graphics System (PHIGS)
- ISO 8632 - Computer Graphics Metafile (CGM)
- ISO/IEC 7498 - Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Basic Reference Model
- ISO/IEC 9636-2 to 9636-6 - Subsequent parts of CGI functional specification (Control, Output, Segments, Input & Echoing, Raster)
- ISO/IEC 9637 & 9638 - Data stream and procedural bindings for CGI
These related standards facilitate integration, interoperability, and future expansion, supporting a robust international ecosystem for computer graphics technology.
In summary, ISO/IEC 9636-1:1991 is the essential foundation for implementing interoperable, portable, and extensible computer graphics solutions, providing strategic guidance for all subsequent CGI-related developments.
Open preview (PDF)Information technology — Computer graphics — Interfacing techniques for dialogues with graphical devices (CGI) — Functional specification — Part 1: Overview, profiles, and conformance
