M'n'G designs programs use OpenGL to help produce the 3D drawings. This is a widely available interface between software and graphics hardware. The implementation of this interface is in a driver. Different drivers are required to talk to different graphics chips.
Windows is shipped with a generic driver and this is sufficient for SuperView. However modern graphics chips have many features and power (speed) that this generic driver does not use. Some of SuperView25s features (eg reflections) are not supported by the generic driver but the program will work.
SuperView will automatically select a mode from this driver that suits its requirements and there is a utility that allows more control of the mode used.
We recommend using the accelerated OpenGL drivers provided by the chip/card/machine manufacturer. However these are constantly changing and some do have problems. (This was especially true of Vista drivers)
If your machine has any problems drawing the 3D pictures (e.g distortions, blank screens, flashing screens or even crashes) it is worth checking the chip manufacturers' web sites as they may well have a newer driver.
It is now common to have two graphics processors in a system (especially but not exclusively portables). Setting up the OpenGL driver for these systems can be a little more complex. In general, in the relevant nVidia or AMD control utility ensure the better processor is being used and dual graphics modes often have to be turned off.
nVidia and AMD (formerly ATI) are the main suppliers of the actual chips and hence the drivers. Other suppliers include Intel. It is also worth checking the card and actual computer manufacturer's web-sites.
nVidia and AMD (formerly ATI) make graphics chips for portables but support and drivers are often through the portable manufacturer rather than the chip suppliers.
Intel also supply a range of chips - they directly support these on their web-site but check your hardware supplier first. 2007-Q2 shipped Vista drivers NEED updating!
We constantly improve the features of our software and this includes making use of the hardware features available. As graphics chips become even more common we will increase the use of their features.