OpenSimulator

Open Simulator, OpenSim for short, is a BSD - licensed open source project, in which a server platform for virtual worlds to be created. The application was programmed in C # and can be edited using the runtime environments Net Framework and Mono and compile. OpenSimulator is compatible with the client of Second Life, which was provided by Linden Lab under the GPL. The aim of the Open Simulator project is to create a platform for 3D virtual worlds, is allowed on the anyone to copy, modify and distribute. The BSD license also allows for commercial use because the programmer who changed the software ( unlike the GPL), is not obliged to publish its changes.

Base

OpenSim is the backend - the server side. To enter the virtual world created a client is needed. Here, all viewers are supported based on the Second Life client. With this viewer you accesses to regions that also include 256 × 256 m, as is the case in Second Life. To create objects being counted on OpenSim similar to Second Life on so-called prims. Prims are allow geometric building blocks of the be shaped by a set of molding parameters on. Since version 0.7.2 also meshes (. Dae ) files are supported. These can be created as Blender on 3D applications.

Versioning

The OpenSim project is still in the alpha phase. The OpenSim community regularly publishes new versions. In addition to the stable versions, which are usually released every six months, there are special versions for developers. These are marked with the additional code " DEV" ( Developer) and are in a separate Developer Area (but is open to the public ) are available. If after some time a new version is present which has already reached a certain degree of stability, these with the identifier " RC" ( Release Candidate ) is offered in addition to the current version in the distribution area.

Architecture

Open simulator can be operated in two modifications:

  • In standalone mode, all tasks (region, application, data storage ) are mapped by a process. This is especially suitable for developers or use on a single server.
  • The grid mode is intended for operation of larger networks. The tasks are divided into specialized server processes. About the so-called "Robust console " the individual simulators are connected and centralized management on a server.

Modules

OpenSimulator uses plug-ins to extend the functionality. Thus, a stable and standardized core ( core) is provided as new functions are developed as a module in a larger freedom and need little coordination.

Databases

Since OpenSim should both meet the requirement of portability to operate than larger worlds on different platforms that support multiple databases had to be realized. Officially supports OpenSim platforms SQLite (standard, no installation of a database server required ), Microsoft SQL Server and MySQL. Other SQL -based databases can be used, it was in some grids eg MariaDB used successfully.

Variants

To optimize the software on certain areas, created by the actual project some forks. Among the most famous include the well-maintained Open Simulator Project Diva Distro, AuroraSim, called NewWorldStudio and the " Sim on a Stick " version.

  • The Diva Distro is a specially customized for the stand-alone mode version, which should primarily facilitate the operation. In addition, a web interface, called the Diva Wifi included, intended to facilitate the creation of a web server.
  • In AuroraSim is a complete elimination of the actual project. This was due, among other things, that certain developments were not included in the OpenSim project. Among the best known functions include, among others, the possibility of the size of the regions ( default regions are 256 × 256 m tall ) to change.
  • NewWorldStudio and Sim on a Stick have mainly aimed to improve access to 3D worlds and technologies and facilitate. For this purpose, these versions have been specially adapted to the needs of a simple operation. So has the NewWorldStudio example a graphical interface to configure.

Protocols

OpenSim default to using the Second Life protocol that was developed by Linden Labs. However, OpenSim is multi-protocol capable and since March 2009 has been introduced as the first extension of the MXP protocol. Metaverse Exchange Protocol ( MXP) is a client (viewer) server log of the second generation. Internally used Opensim XML -RPC and REST (JSON / HTTP and XML / HTTP).

Hypergrid

When Hypergrid is a function that combines multiple grids on so-called teleports. For this purpose the system uses a direct address input similar to a conventional web browser. Likewise, the inventory of the user is taken and remains mutually available. Because of the security but everything to be controlled over a Suitcase folder in the future, so that the visited server can not exert any influence on the users of the Hyper grids. Since version 1.5, also a IM chat ( instant messaging ) via the Hypergrid is possible. With HG 2.0 essential things are to be optimized, especially in the area of ​​security.

Scripting

OpenSimulator uses similar to Second Life called scripts for inworld programming. It is set to the same LSL script functions as in Second Life. However, new features have been added which are not in Second Life are currently possible.

Vision

The aim of the Open Simulator project is to create a platform for 3D virtual worlds, where it is allowed anyone to copy, modify and distribute. At the same time this represents a new basis for the so-called Web3D

Software maintainer C Sharp (programming language) .NET Framework BSD licenses
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