In this first DVD in our MAXScript Fundamentals series Laszlo will take you through the first principles of MAXScript, such as Variables, Properties, For Loops, Flow Control, making your code into a MacroScript for easier access on your toolbars, Functions and how to make your own custom Functions from your own MAXScript code.
This DVD is aimed at an intermediate 3dsmax user who wants to harness the power of MAXScript and at those moving over to 3dmax from another platform that need to transfer their scripting skills. MAXScript will allow you to both to make your workflow easier via custom tools, and also to push beyond any limits placed on you by the systems GUI. Note: No previous programming or scripting experience is needed for this DVD.

In this first of our Advanced MAXScript DVDs, Bobo introduces us to the world of 3D math, or as he puts it “how the 3D world functions under the hood…”. This DVD progresses through the theory and practical application of vector, trig, matrix and barycentric coordinate math. It will allow you to manipulate objects transforms, particles speed and motion, to easily align one object to another, and builds on all of these topics to culminate in a fully scripted ray-tracing rendering system!!

This DVD is an ideal introduction or refresher course for any Intermediate or Advanced scripter that wants gain (or re-gain) control of 3D math skills within MAXScript and in doing so push their skills forward and take a firmer control of many areas of 3dsmax

Vertex and pixel shader programming allows graphics and game developers to create photorealistic graphics on the personal computer for the first time. And with DirectX, programmers have access to an assembly language interface to the transformation and lighting hardware (vertex shaders) and the pixel pipeline (pixel shaders). Direct3D ShaderX begins with an introduction to vertex and pixel shader programming and moves on to a wide array of specialized shader tricks contributed by 27 experts in game and graphics programming. These range from character animation and lighting to photorealistic faces and non-photorealistic rendering. Special effects shaders are also presented, including those for such effects as bubbles, rippling water, animated grass, and particle flows.

3ds Max is a leader in 3D animation for game development, design visualization, and visual effects and enables users to outperform the competition when it comes to high-volume visual effects production. From 3D storyboards and digital matte paintings to realistic digital environments, believable characters, and impressive crowds, this all-in-one software is professional and fast! The powerful Biped module in 3ds Max 8, with pre-linked and realistically constrained skeletons and its suite of motion tools, dramatically speeds up the animation process. In this book and accompanying CD, author and award-winning animators Michele Bousquet and Michael McCarthy look at the Biped, Physique, Crowd, and Motion Mixer tools and demonstrate how to animate character models quickly. They start with the basics of Biped, and then move on to footstep animation, freeform animation and the use of crowd behavior simulation tools. Readers will also learn how to use all the new tools of Motion Mixer for mixing motion files, and the Workbench for adjusting biped function curves, and learn specific animation techniques, including how to adjust physique for perfect deformation, fit a biped to any character model, create realistic motions, combine motions on any character, create crowd scenes automatically, and more!

Spark your creativity with the world’s most popular animation software and the detailed instruction in this power-packed book from an industry expert. If you’re new to 3ds Max, jump right in with a Quick Start program that will have you modeling and rendering a complete image your first day. Experienced users, discover exciting new Max 8 features such as a new module for hair and fur, a new cloth system, and much more. This comprehensive book covers every feature, and it’s loaded with professional techniques and full color examples to inspire you.

Inside, you’ll find complete coverage of 3ds Max 8

* Model a detailed creature right away with the Quick Start tutorial
* Add realistic and dynamic hair, fur, and cloth to your models
* Create complex characters with Max’s new biped features
* Use the expanded Edit Poly options to work more efficiently with Edge Ring and Edge Loop selections
* Explore Max’s new Asset Tracking system including the Autodesk(r) Vault client
* Make texture creation a snap with the new Pelt mapping method and the Render UVW Template feature
* Save, load, and retarget animation files using the supported XML Animation File (XAF) format
* Easily render a series of stills from several angles with the new Batch Render tool