Have you imported .3ds files before?
Does this problem happen with all .3ds files, or just this one?

You may need to run a repair on your Max installation. It sounds like the import module may have become corrupted or maybe it didn't get installed properly.

Or you could just export from Rhino to a different format.


Edited by Cad64 - 03.Apr.2011 at 20:33

One thing you have to understand about Max is that it is NOT a CAD program. You can create dimensionally accurate models in Max, but I usually draw 2D outlines or profiles in Autocad and then import those into Max and extrude them. It's much easier and faster to draw accurately in CAD and then import.

As for snapping, yes, it's a little tricky. It's not as simple as you may be used to in other programs, so you just have to be careful and make sure you see the cursor change to the little arrows before you click and drag. It's just something you have to practice.

For moldings, you can sweep or loft in Max just the same as you can in other programs.

Other helpful tips? I wouldn't even know where to begin. That question is just too wide open. If you have specific questions, I can try to answer them, but I can't really sit here and try to think of things to tell you because I don't know what you already know, or what you don't know.

When you draw in Autocad, are you drawing with polylines? Do you make sure that all your polylines connect and are closed? The only time I usually have problems is if my polylines are not closed. If you want to send me some of your CAD files that don't work when imported, I can take a look and try to figure out what's wrong.

Poly vs. Mesh? It's really up to you but I think most people use poly's. I never work with meshes because I take my models into ZBrush and ZBrush doesn't like triangles. Meshes are a throwback to the old days of Max. I don't know of any advantages to using them as opposed to poly's. In fact, I would probably say there are more advantages to using Poly's than meshes. There seems to be a lot more poly editing tools than mesh editing tools, but having never really used meshes, I can't really tell you more than that. If you search online for 3DS Max poly vs mesh you will find many forums filled with discussions on this topic.

That's a pretty random question.
I have no idea what you're talking about???