The World of Technology 3D

The focus on technological innovations throughout history, centring on inventions and their inventors, is impressive. First, a richly annotated timeline of technological development from 3,000 BC to 1997 lists more than 600 innovations in science, medicine, industrial processes, and the like. Users can also browse by broad subjects, such as technology (for detailed information on, for example, the wheel), energy, transportation and more. There's an alphabetical listing of inventors, each of which includes a timeline describing notable achievements of the respective inventor.

This two CD-ROM succeeds in its visual presentation, with diagrams, photographs and animations galore; of note is the old video of Edison in his light-bulb factory. (There are also about a dozen 3-D "models" for such objects as a bicycle, an android, the space shuttle, and a laptop computer.) But the emphasis here remains on the two-dimensional, which effectively shows the history of scientific innovation, from the Bronze Age to the digital age. The Knowledge Explorer tool even lets you filter content by entries with sound, animation, photos and diagrams.

In all, this title isn't just a dictionary of technology, though it can be used as a reference. By organising information historically, the creators of The World of Technology 3D have provided a rewarding science and technology tutorial that puts the development of scientific innovations in perspective for young users. --Rich Dragan

Already 4,000 years ago, healers covered wounds with molded bread light on everyday technology, including the household iron and the cellular phone. Who would guess that the first push-cart was invented in China? Or that it was Leonardo da Vinci who invented the basic shape of a barbeque rost. Familiar technological equipment receives the attention it deserves.

The World of Technology 3D communicates each of the 100 themes in clear and concise words, supported by visual and audio explanations. Navigation is never a barrier to access the rich content. A browser similar to the familiar internet-browsers enables quick and easy access to all information. Important historic context can be illuminated with the interactive historic timeline with integrated search function. It leads straight to the internet where an even more elaborate web-cyclopaedia provides additional explanations. Rich image and movie material brings the informative text to life. Virtual reality software allows users to manipulate 3D-models for closer inspection. A great way to become familiar with how technology works.

The two CD-ROMs provide fun and entertainment. The World of Technology 3D applies all aspects multimedia offers to breath new life into the complex world of technology.