TX-2 console displaying Sketchpad, c. 1963
Credit: MIT Archives

Since the earliest computers were built, people have sought to use them for drawing pictures. Early examples ranged from primitive line printer graphs to the interactive graphics executed by pen or graphics tablet on Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) systems such as MIT's Whirlwind and TX-0 computers.

For his 1963 doctoral dissertation, MIT student Ivan Sutherland used the TX-2 computer to write Sketchpad, a sophisticated program that began a new era of computer graphics. Sketchpad pioneered an array of concepts including new memory structures to store object, "rubber-banding" of lines, zooming, and the ability to make perfect lines and angles. Sutherland's program was the basis for future applications, including Computer-Aided Design (CAD).

As more powerful computers became available, users could add realistic color and texture to basic line drawings. This process, called rendering, developed a standard image of a teapot, which was used to test new procedures. Today, the teapot data is still used to develop applications.

Because processing graphical data requires such intense calculation, developments in graphics software have closely paralleled hardware improvements. Even the most powerful computers today require hours or even days to render an image involving many reflections or complex light sources.

Hollywood exposes many people to the latest imaging technology. Animated feature films and the use of computer generated characters are revolutionizing the industry.

New imaging applications continue to emerge, such as those used for advanced medical diagnostic procedures.