After Max is installed, you can start Max using the desktop shortcut or the Start menu, but Max requires that you register and activate the software through Autodesk for permanent use. The software continues to run for 30 days without activation, but after 30 days it quits working.
Figure B.3 shows the screen that first appears when you start Max after installation. Using this screen, you can launch the Registration Wizard or run the software unactivated for 30 days. The Registration Wizard automatically appears when you select the Activate the product option and click the Next button.
Figure B.3: The first screen to appear after installation lets you activate your software or run it without activation.
The first screen of the Registration Wizard lets you get an activation code or enter an activation code if you have one. To obtain an activation code, you need to enter information such as your name, address, and company name. You can also specify whether this copy is an upgrade. If you're upgrading your Max version, you need to include the serial number for your previous version. The Serial Number and Request Code are automatically filled in using the numbers entered during the installation. You can authorize the software using a direct connection to the Web, fax, e-mail, or regular mail.
If you receive an activation code via fax, e-mail, or mail, you can select the "Already have an activation code" option on the first screen that appears when you run Max and click Next. A screen opens where you can enter the activation code. The wizard registers this number with Max and completes the registration process.
Caution | The activation code is specific to a specific computer and works only for that computer. If you want to install the software on a separate computer, you need to obtain another activation code. |
Within Max, the Help Activate 3ds Max menu command lets you enter an activation number to activate the software.