The suggested technique for viewing these icons is the cross-eyed technique, and I suggest starting with 3DTEST1 or 3DTEST2. Note that there are there are two arrow-like dots at the top of the icon. Now, very slightly cross your eyes until you see three of these dots. This may be easiest about one foot from the screen. When you see three dots, you will also see three images. Concentrate on the MIDDLE image, and try to ignore the ones on either side. Sooner or later, the middle image should sort of swim into focus. When this happens, the central image will reveal an illustion of depth. Hey! Wow! With 3DTEST1, the black dots will be higher than the other dots; with 3DTEST2 the red dots will be highest. When the effect is manifest and stable, you will feel a surge of triumph and pointless delight.

For learning, you might try looking at such icons with an icon editor. With the larger image thus afforded, you can sit a normal distance from the screen.

Fun, huh? Now try the other 3-d icons provided. Recommended: try TEST3 next, then STEPS1, then the OS/2 alphanumerics. The face (3DFACE1) reveals three levels of depth, in a crude sort of way. 3DDOTS1 reveals a random pattern of dots floating above the screen. The volcano is formed by two icons; put VOL1 on the left and VOL2 on the right, carefully aligned in the horizontal plane. This might be best done using one of the enclosed bitmaps.

Please: send me any comments, suggestions, encouragement, condemnation, your own 3-d efforts, whatever! Feedback definitely helps.

David Edwards