C1Chart's 3D effects can be used with area charts or stacking area charts to create the illusion of depth with each data series. By using the depth, elevation, rotation and shading properties, you can enhance your area charts, making them stand out by creating visual depth.

To access the 3D view for an area chart, adjust the properties in the View3D object. The View3D object is a member of the PlotArea, which in turn is a member of the ChartArea. By adjusting the View3D object properties, Depth, Elevation, Rotation and Shading you can customize the 3D view.

Note that the Depth property is the key to all 3D type chart logic. While the Elevation and Rotation properties modify the way a user views the chart, it is the Depth property that actually dictates whether a chart is 3D. By using a non-zero value for the Depth property and setting the Elevation and Rotation property values to zero, you have created a 3D chart even though nothing seems to have changed. In effect you are looking at the "front" surface of the chart, which is visually represented in the same way as a standard area chart.

Note also, that there may be times when it is desirable to chart some data with a 3D view, and other data in the 2D plane. For these instances, adjust the Use3D property associated with each ChartGroup.