I want to download a mesh in .max format, but I do not have 3dsMAX. Is there a freeware/shareware program or a plugin that allows me to convert .max objects to some other format, like 3ds or obj or lwo You're my only hope!!!

Sorry Elminster_ZK, .Max is a locked format. I've been struggling to solve this annoying "feature" for ages. Even the big convertors like Deep Exploration or PolyTrans won't do it unless a working version of max is installed. The only work around, is install a demo version of max then hope it can export or save as .3ds. Or install the demo, and something like Deep Exploration or PolyTrans that calls part of max to convert it. This works, but only as long as the demo is within it's timed limit. Typically 30 days. Also remember a couple of things once a max demo is installed.... Some older demos from discreet use Alexa as it's security check. If you run adaware and remove this spyware the demo packs up, even if you re-install. If you're use a demo from old magazine discs, make sure the demo is the same version as the file you want to open/convert, as once one version is installed thats your lot. Don't try and get creative on the time limit. 1. It might be illegal. 2. the demo will know and instantly stop working. Also don't try and get clever with system restore points. Again possibliy illegal and the installer leaves hidden files on your system.

THanks

or use gmax, the free, low poly version of max designed for game object.

Attached Link: http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/index?id=5659302&siteID=123112

Elminster: what you need to do is go to www.discreet.com and download the Max demo. It is fully functional for 30 days. You can use that to open your .max item and export it as a .3ds which you can then import into other applications.

Jeff(martian_manhunter)
3dsMax Moderator

Edited for typos

Message edited on: 09/02/2005 10:57

Thanks guys

Thanks guys

heck, if it's a free mesh, I can convert it for you, just give me the URL. ~S

Thanks, spinner, but I really just want to be able to convert meshes, like from things I download off of Turbosquid, for example. Thanks though.

I would sayb that once you get the demo, because you'll only have it for 30 days, you should go to these download sites and collect up any max models that interest you and convert them now while you still have the active demo.

That's the plan