Autodesk 12812-051462-9011 User Guide 3 - Page 1221

Creating Map Directories As you assign materials in a scene, the software stores the complete path to each map you use. The program searches for that particular location. If necessary, the program continues to look through the directory containing the scene file and its subdirectories. Maps, specific to a project, should be kept in a dedicated directory that has been set up for that project. You can create subdirectories below this directory to organize files. This directory needs to be shared using Windows Explorer. Maps for general use, such as texture libraries, can be organized as you choose. The computers containing such libraries need to be on the network, and the directories need to be shared. Creating a Common Output Directory A common output directory is a single directory on one hard disk where rendered frames accumulate during network rendering. When creating a common output directory, follow these guidelines: ■ Decide on a machine to accept final output. It should have enough disk space to store the largest completed animation file you're likely to render. ■ Create or choose a directory for final output. ■ Share that directory as a resource available to the network. Creating a Local Output Directory A local output directory lets you use available storage on each rendering server. Rendered frame files are sequentially numbered when assigned by the network manager. When you collect the finished frames, they automatically sort in the proper order. When creating a local output directory, follow these guidelines: ■ Use the same path and name for all local directories. For example, use \3dsmax_files\images\. ■ Use the same path and name for all local directories. For example, use \Program Files\Autodesk VIZ 2008\images. ■ Specify this path for the output directory when you start network rendering. All rendering servers will then send their output to this local directory. 6476 | Chapter 20 Rendering