Using Command-Line Rendering

Within the default installation directory is a file named 3dsmaxcmd.exe. This file lets you initiate the rendering of files using a command-line interface. This feature enables you to create batch files that can be used to start Max, load several scenes, and render them automatically during the night while you sleep. You can find a command prompt interface in Windows XP using Start All Programs Accessories Command Prompt.

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If you're not comfortable with executing commands using the command line, you can set up batch rendering using the Batch Render feature covered in Chapter 46, "Batch and Network Rendering."

If you type 3dsmaxcmd -?, the command line returns a list of available parameters that you can use. Typing 3dsmaxcmd -x returns several sample commands. The simplest command to render a scene called coolstuff.max would be 3dsmaxcmd coolstuff.max.

Using the various command-line flags, you can specify an image size and format, use Render Preset files to control the renderer settings and even submit a job for network rendering.