We’ve just pushed out the latest version of OpenCD, 07.04. No additions this time around but no less than nineteen updates gave good reason to release a new disc. It also gave me an opportunity to launch three new features for the project; Tux the penguin, the official artwork, and a how to help section.
Keen eyes will notice the logo graphic has changed again; I’m planning on having it change for each major release to help everybody notice new versions upon release, plus it keeps the look from becoming stale.
Everybody’s favourite penguin Tux, makes a welcome appearance on the latest version. Most of the programs on the disc are multi-platform, although most Windows users are unaware of that and what it means. From 07.04 on, a small Tux appears at the bottom of cross-platform product pages, and hovering over Tux reveals “This program also available in Linux!“.
Tux on the program page
Clicking Tux reveals a quick introduction to Linux from the point of view of somebody that may have heard of Linux, but has no real idea of how it works or what you can do with it. The idea behind Tux’s appearance is to inform people that most of the software they use is already available for Linux, and that Linux is a great free alternative to Windows. Time will tell (through emails, naturally) if it’s a success or confusing to users.
An introduction to Linux for OpenCD users
A problem that we’ve had for a while is the lack of artwork people can use to make nice presentable copies of OpenCD. To address this I’ve produced what we’re going to call Official Artwork, which will be available for every new version of OpenCD and will change in appearance each time for clearer recognition.
Instead of the usual jewel-case inserts I’ve (selfishly) decided that the origami disc sleeve I desiged (see An aesthetic Origami card sleeve) would be used instead. It’s easy enough to make and people are genuinely intrigued by a disc sleeve that’s made from an A4 sheet without cutting or glueing.
Also on the latest disc there’s a new section where people can find out how to help the project, depending on how much spare time they have. It’s surprising how many emails arrive from people willing to help in various ways, but completely unsure how exactly to help – hopefully this will go some way to fixing that problem.
Great to hear, the new OpenCD is looking great. Do you take the photos for the logo graphic yourself?
By the way, the torrent is coming along nicely
Hi Akash,
Yep the photo is from Tasmania – I figured that I’d keep using my photos since I can do whatever I’d like with them and not have to worry about licensing rights.
Good to see the torrent’s going strong too!