DX8 - X Files, 3ds files

[danday1974]

Hey all

Could any1 tell me how they create 3ds files please. I posted a topic similar to this but I lost the answers. Also what software do u guys use? Also can u save texture info in the x file (such as texture name), I have seen it done. If so how please.

Pretty much anything on 3ds files and x files is good to post here please guys.

Cheers

Dan

PS package names and such is good too cheers

[Zaei]

Most people will use 3DStudioMAX. Most modelling programs worth their salt will export to this format as well. Texture data should be saved as well... When you convert to an x file (using the conv3ds tool), the texture data should be converted as well, but will still be loaded from files. If you actually want the textures to be stored in the model file, you will have to write your own format.

Z.

[Machaira]

Milkshape is a good one to use if you don't happen to have a grand or so laying around for Max. :)

[Zaei]

I prefer Milkshape, because of the easy raw vertex/face creation (that is how I like to create my models), but I HATE having shareware software tainting my computer.

Z.

[danday1974]

Hi guys

Where do u download the most up to date version of milkshape from please? I have searched for the site but no joy. Cheers

Dan

[danday1974]

Read above post ty

PS I am trying to find the most up to date version since Im sure many sites r 'out of date'.

Cheers again

Dan

[Zaei]

http://www.swissquake.ch/chumbalum-soft I believe.

Z.

[edit]
It was wrong, fixed it.

[danday1974]

Cheers Z

[Grimmie]

I have created some 3DS models.

As I understand it is possible to use DirectX8 within VB to show the model on screen and rotate it for example with the cursor keys.

Anyone found a tutorial or example code how I could program this???
I'm not a good VB programmer. :rolleyes:

Thanks,
Grimmie

[Phade]

Originally posted by Grimmie
I have created some 3DS models.

As I understand it is possible to use DirectX8 within VB to show the model on screen and rotate it for example with the cursor keys.

Anyone found a tutorial or example code how I could program this???
I'm not a good VB programmer. :rolleyes:

Thanks,
Grimmie

Im requesting the same thing! Anyone know how?

[danday1974]

Yeah guys I know how but the answer aint a 1 liner since u need to know VB, DirectX and 3D Studio Max (or some other 3D modelling package).

Basically u load the object u made in 3D Studio Max. There is a good tutorial on www.directx4vb.com on this. It is lesson 8.

Using conv3ds.exe convert the file to a .x file and then bobs ur uncle. Use the directX function d3dmatrixrotationy (or whichever axis u want) to rotate the object. The variable used with this function can be changed using the keyboard to give u keyboard control.

A tip:

When using conv3ds.exe use the parameters -m and suggested and also -s100 to make the object 100 times bigger, that way u will find it easier on screen u can then scale it.

Another tip:

The coords used in 3dstudio max matter. Make the object at 0,0,0 and point the camera at that same vector so u can see the object.

Go do the tut I suggested then read this again it will make more sense then

Dan

PS For materials use bitmaps as opposed to 3DS max materials. Use the asset browser to place such textures on bitmaps.

PPS There are some good tuts in 3ds max itself. Do the one on level design to help u out. It took me ages to get this working and I still have troubles with Vertex Paint (a subject in the 3D max tut i mentioned).