Frequently Asked Questions: Problems and Answers

As more questions arise, this FAQ will have information added.

Problems with running openGL programs

I. Specifically GLUT related:

• Error:

  When the program is compiled and is executed, the following message appears: "GLUT fatal error ... Failed to create openGL rendering context..."

• Problem Cause:

Possible incompatibility in hardware acceleration drivers and DirectX or other framework

• Solutions:

  1)Turn off graphics acceleration

In Windows, go to Display control panel, then Settings, Advanced, and choose Troubleshooting. There should be a slider representing graphics acceleration, slide it fully left (to off position). OpenGL will now be rendered in software, thus slower, but it will work. If not, you should consider reinstalling windows, then Direct X 9.0 or higher, THEN your graphics accelerator drivers.

2) Reinstall your operating system or revert to an earlier version (ie an earlier service pack), wait to install the graphics accelerator hardware drivers. Install the generic driver when prompted to do so. Install all other graphics frameworks, then finally your graphics hardware drivers. In Microsoft Windows, be SURE TO INSTALL DIRECTX BEFORE YOUR GRAPHICS ACCELERATOR DRIVERS!!!

3) Be absolutely sure you have the newest software and drivers for your hardware. Frequently the newest versions of openGL are implemented within your graphics hardware drivers specifically. The operating system you use normally supports openGL by itself as well (generally up to v1.1 or v1.2).