View source for Trainz Tools by PEV

==Listener for GMax==
 
An '''Exporter''' package for GMax to make normal mapped assets with the latest exporter capabilities.

GMax cannot be used on its own to export files to Trainz. Writing an exporter in Maxscript means that the output of the script cannot be written directly to a file, hence the development of this package. It consists of an exporter MaxScript macro for GMax that makes XML code in the GMax Listener window, and a program to transfer that data from listener window to an XML file which is then run through N3V Games TrainzMeshImporter to make the latest kind of IM mesh files supported by Trainz. The exporter supports the material naming conventions needed for TS2009 onwards assets, and will automatically change the name if no material type is specified.

The Listener program "help" calls a tutorial on the use of the package. English only..

An additional tutorial showing the use of the GMax Skin Modifier as supported by the exporter is [[HowTo/Use_the_Skin_Modifier_in_GMax|HERE]]. 

Download the exporter from [http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/~villaump/pevsoft.htm here]



==Attachment Maker==

A program to add attachment points to existing assets by creating an invisible mesh with those points. Very simple and quick to use; add attachments in minutes.

Download AttachmentMaker [http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/~villaump/pevsoft.htm here]

==Images2TGA==

A program to view all image types used in Trainz.  The program can also convert any image to another format, as well as add and manipulate alpha images.  You can attach your favourite image editor to allow opening of images for edit from within Images2TGA. The program handles the latest DXT compressed textures and allows conversion of these images to other formats.  The trawl feature can be used to convert textures to TGAs.

This program supercedes Texture Viewer 2 and Texture2TGA.

Download Images2TGA [http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/~villaump/pevsoft.htm here]



==PM2IM==

A tool program to convert Auran progressive meshes (PM) to indexed meshes (IM). An option is provided to alter specular values that can cause unwanted shine on object surfaces.

This program can also be used to remove unsupported texture types from IM meshes.

Download PM2IM [http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/~villaump/pevsoft.htm here]



==Trainz Mesh Viewer 2==

Trainz Mesh Viewer 2 is a simple program to render textured meshes for Trainz. Also can now render complete train cars on short length of track. The views can be zoomed and rotated to view the object from any angle. If textures are not present the object is rendered in the diffuse colour with shadows. The program includes a facility to make 240x 180 thumbnail images of the object and can display normal mapped objects with a separate display for the bumps. A mesh data display has been added showing poly count and mesh size.  Recent additions allow viewing of complete traincars as well as attachments and individual textures.

Download Trainz Mesh Viewer 2 [http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/~villaump/pevsoft.htm here]

==PEVs Download Page==

As you can see if you download any of the above you are directed to my download page.  Check out the other tools on offer.


==Tutorials for PEV's Tools==

John King's Trainz Resources NewsLetter published a series of tutorials on PEV's Trainz Tools.

They covered:-

'''Images2TGA''' ''for manipulating all image types used in Trainz''

'''PM2IM''' ''for conversions of Progressive Meshes to Indexed Meshes''

'''QuickShadows''' ''for creating simple shadows where needed''

'''AttachmentMaker''' ''add attachments to assets in minutes''


Reprints of these are available from PEV's [http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/~villaump/pevsoft.htm download page].



==Disclaimer==

PEV accepts no liability for damage or lost data arising from the use or misuse of the above software.
 
The programs are provided free of charge and in good faith to assist Trainz authors and users.

Some meshes don't render correctly in AssetX or Trainz Mesh Viewer. All of PEV's mesh tools (and AssetX) have a bug in INFL chunk based animations as produced by 3DSMax. These are rare as GMax does not support this type of animation. Unfortunately there is no documentation on how this works, and PEV has been unable to get it right by experimentation. (Still trying though)

==About PEV==

I am a retired electrical engineer who worked for a major Australian building materials manufacturer for many years. I have two recreational passions, making classical guitars, and Trainz..  I made many software tools when working and now write them when ever I think a problem can be solved with a bit of software.

I hope you find my efforts helpful.