Normal Maps In Maya

[aaronk]

Hi I'm having some problems with normal maps in maya.
I want to use a low-poly model for animations and put a normal map from a hi-res version for rendering,
I have the normal maps created from ZMapper in Zbrush and trying to figure out what would be the best way to use them in Maya.
I tried 2 different methods (one with some complicated nodes set found on the net, and one with a single node made for normals in maya) Both of them have some problems, either the normal map is reversed in some places, or there are very visible seams.
I'm looking for tips for how to do it properly, or should I just forget about normal maps in Maya?

[fortner_mike]

I think normal maps are just like textures. If you have a bad uv layout you will get seams and other bad things will happen. Fix your uv map.

[joojaa]

Actualy they are worse. A normal bump map does not change coordinate systems in between but a Local normal map will and that interpolates really badly. This is one reason MR use world normal maps as they are much more seam friendly.

[aaronk]

QUOTE(Joojaa @ 02/19/07, 12:42 PM) [snapback]260413[/snapback]
Actualy they are worse. A normal bump map does not change coordinate systems in between but a Local normal map will and that interpolates really badly. This is one reason MR use world normal maps as they are much more seam friendly.

ok, but how do i use these normal maps in maya. As far as i know maya doesnt have any built in nodes for normal maps, right?