First off, I have downloaded a bunch of models. They are in different formats, but most are .3ds or.MAX.
I was wondering how I can import models into Maya, and which formats I can. I tried just opening/importing the files, but they are unreconized file types.
Im starting to doubt if I can open .3ds or .MAX files, but Id just like to make sure.
Thanks.
Hi there
Basically Maya doesn't let you to open or import MAX files directly you need to first convert it and then you can open them in maya .
But how to open :
Either you should find some 3ds Opener plug in that they EXIST.
Or you may need some extra softwares like the polytranse that you can get the demo version from :
http://www.okino.com/default.htm
Hope it works.
K, I got polytrans, but the two file types I need (MAX and Maya) just have an info doc in the export/import menus, but they both seem to be corrupt or missing.
The 3ds plugin for Maya is avaaible for download fromthe alias website and is par tof the bonus tools pack also in the Maya help menu you can choose downlaod bonus tools from web.
As for Max files your only option is to open the model in Max and export it as a 3ds or obj file. I guess the main reason why is because in many cases the Max file may be using plugins to create the model so the translator or importer cannot know what is generating the model.
As for Max or maya you need an extra plug in but any way yuou can convert them into OBJ and open them in to maya.
Hpe it works.
Cool, .obj worked. Thanks. 
K, I have the bonus tools. Now I cant find the 3ds plugin in the bonus tools menu in Maya... :S
The reason Im asking this is because I dont want every 5th polygon removed in my models.