| A | B |
|---|
| BOOM | Is similar to HMD - but no helmet. Viewing box suspended from rotating arm. Uses handles on box sides to move image around. Buttons on handles allow user to interact with object. |
| CAVE | One of the newest, most "immersive" virtual environments. 10 x 10 x 9-foot darkened cubicle. Is like climbing into the computer's screen. Display enables user to experience the sensation of being "inside" the data. |
| Data Glove | Programs the computer to change modes in response to gestures made. Some use fiber optic cables. Some use strain sensors over joints. |
| Desktop | Uses 3-D Graphics, Does not require additional equipment. |
| Facial sensor/body suit | Sensors read facial expressions/body movements and transfer information to the computer for animation purposes. |
| Head Mounted Display | Device on top of helmet signals head movements. A computer continually updates the simulation to reflect new perspectives. Its viewing screen adds depth to flat pictures. Blocks out surrounding environment and is very popular with the entertainment industry. |
| Immersive | Requires additional equipment. Is the most effective of Virtual Reality technologies. Eyes, ears, or other body senses are isolated from real environment and fed information that is generated by the computer. |
| Shared Virtual Environments | Three networked users at different locations (anywhere in the world) meet in the same virtual world by using a BOOM device, a CAVE system, and a Head-mounted Display. All users see the same virtual environment from their respective points of view. Each user is presented as a virtual human (avatar) to the other participants. |
| Telepresence | Allows a person to interact with another live, real place at a different physical location other than their actual location. In some situations, participants may be able to manipulate devices or the environment in the remote location. |
| Virtual Reality | A simulated environment giving the user a feeling of being part of the experience. |
| Wand | Is simplest of interface devices. Most have on/off buttons. Some have knobs, dials, or joy sticks. Operate with six degrees of freedom. |
