Unit 78 P1 (Part 4) Digital Graphics for Computer Games (03/10/16)

Level 3

Unit 78 - Digital Graphics for Computer Games (Part 4)

P1- Understand Theory & Application of Digital Graphics

File Extensions:

An ending of a filename that shows what type of file it is. E.g. "Timetable.docx," is a Word File with the .docx extension. Normally the extension name is only 3 characters long but they can be anything from 1 - 20 characters. See this blogpost for more information on the different types of extensions: http://sarahsgamesdesign.blogspot.co.uk/2016/09/unit-78-part-3-digital-graphics-for.html

Compression:

Data gets compressed when the original size of a file is reduced to save disk space and make it easier for it to be transferred. This is also known as 'file zipping'. When compressed it usually takes up 50% - 90% less space than the original file/s. Common types include Zip, Gzip, RAR, StuffIt and 7z compression.

• Lossy compression -  Results in lost data and quality of the original file. Typically used with image files but  may be used for audio files. The lossy part may show up as pixelation or non anti-aliased jagged edges. 
• Lossless compression - Although reduces file size as well, does not lose quality. It basically will rewrite data from the original file in a better way. They do tend to use more space that lossy compressed data.
• Uncompressed - Original files that have not been compressed

Image Capture:

Obtaining a digital image from something like a vision sensor. These methods can include: screenshotting/screen grabbing/print screening, taking a photograph using a camera, scanning in from a printer or downloading from the internet etc.

Optimizing:

Update or rewrite/rearrange something to the best of it abilities and factors to improve efficiency, use less power or space.

Storage of Assets:

A useful way of storing things like graphics and text styles so that other people (you may be working with) can easily access them. One of the most important reasons why this is so important is to make quicker file transfers. This includes the file size, file-naming conventions and asset management.


References:
http://techterms.com/definition/fileextension
https://www.techopedia.com/definition/892/file-compression
http://techterms.com/definition/file_compression
http://techterms.com/definition/lossy
http://techterms.com/definition/lossless
http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O11-imagecapture.html
http://www.dictionary.com/browse/optimize
https://joeleigh.wordpress.com/unit-78/storage-of-image-assets/
http://jackwt1995-jackwt.blogspot.co.uk/2011/10/storage-of-image-assets.html