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ArchVision Dashboard

Why is my content rendering with a watermark?

If the ArchVision Dashboard 2.0 does not have a license the plug-in connecting to it will receive a watermark. Licenses can be purchased via the STORE button. The license button will report the current license state. If you have purchased a license, please enter the activation code into the activation field shown when the license button has been clicked. Should you have any difficulty, please contact support@archvision.com.

Can I use ArchVision Dashboard on my home computer?

Yes, the ArchVision Dashboard is unlocked by logging in with your www.archvision.com account info. If a license has been purchased then the Dashboard will be fully functional regardless of which computer the user is logged into. Your license is associated with your user login.

What is causing my Dashboard to crash on install?

This is usually caused by an Internet Security product. Please try disabling Internet Security Software/ Anti Spyware Tools, which may prevent the Dashboard from making outbound Internet Connections or communicating with your network adapter.

If you are installing an ArchVision Dashboard onto a Server 2008 R2 machine, please be sure to install Microsoft .NET 4.5 or later to allow the Dashboard to function.

After Updating my Dashboard I’m getting watermarks. Why is this happening?

When the Dashboard is installed the ACM is removed. If the RPC Plug-in is pointing to an address that is not 127.0.0.1 then it is necessary to change this value to 127.0.0.1. Also all RPC content paths should be configured in Dashboard only. Paths inside of the application (ie. 3ds Max) will override the Dashboard and cause watermarks.

We have also seen issues with invalid paths in 3ds Max resulting in watermarks. Make sure that all paths configured in 3ds Max (to non RPC content) are valid.

If the license is present in the Dashboard and the RPC Plug-in is configured to connect to the Dashboard (using 127.0.0.1) and watermarks are still present, it may be that firewall or Internet Security product is preventing the connection. Try adding exceptions for the application as well as C:Program Files (x86)ArchVisionArchVision DashboardDashboard.exe. Dashboard communicates on port 14931.

How can I configure my render farm to use ArchVision Dashboard?

To network render content hosted by the ArchVision Dashboard 2.0, a path must be configured via the Configure Content dialog on each of the RPC Plug-ins installed on the render nodes. The path should be the IP address of the licensed Dashboard.

View additional configuration instruction for network rendering available here:
http://help.archvision.com/dashboard/tutorials/network_rendering.html

Where are Dashboard files located?

ArchVision Dashboard uses the following directories:

C:Program Files (x86)ArchVisionDashboard
%localappdata%archvisiondashboard
%localappdata%archvisiondashboardDownloads
%localappdata%archvisiondashboardImageCache
%localappdata%archvisiondashboardResources
C:ProgramDataArchVisionSharedImgCache

The executable file is Dashboard.exe

Configuration files are located in %localappdata%archvisiondashboard.

Path settings are located in Dashboard.xml located with the configuration files.

After Installing Dashboard the ACM Disappeared. What happened?

Dashboard 2.0 replaces the ArchVision Content Manager. Installing Dashboard 2.0 will remove previous ArchVision Content Manager (ACM) and Dashboard versions . Please note: RPC Plug-ins are instead configured to connect to Dashboards locally using the address 127.0.0.1 to obtain license and path information.

Why is Dashboard failing to launch?

This will occur if Dashboard.xml has been corrupted. This can be easily resolved by browsing to %localappdata%archvisiondashboard and deleting the contents of this directory. If this is not the solution,please contact support@archvision.com for assistance. Also try disabling and Internet Security Software which may be preventing the Dashboard from connecting to necessary web resources.

How do I configure Network Rendering with ArchVision Dashboard?

A tutorial explaining this process is available here:
http://help.archvision.com/dashboard/tutorials/network_rendering.html

Where is the Dashboard.xml stored for the Dashboard Service?

C:WindowsSysWOW64configsystemprofileAppDataLocalArchVisionDashboard

Dashboard is asking me for an activation code. Where can I get this?

When launched Dashboard authenticates with ArchVision to verify a license is present. If you are using a floating license, Dashboard will look for other Dashboards on the network. If it finds one the logged in user will instantly be licensed. If not, users can enter an activation code to connect the license to the logged in user. This is sent to users when they first purchase a license. If the license was previously purchased the activation can be viewed by logging into the purchasing agent’s account at https://archvision.com and clicking on My Account.

If you are not able to locate the activation code, or are unsure of the purchasing agent, please contact support@archvision.com for assistance.

How should I configure my plug-in to connect to Dashboard?

Under the configure content dialog in compatible applications enter the network address 127.0.0.1. This instructs the RPC Plug-in to connect to the ArchVision Dashboard to access content paths and licenses.

Why do I keep getting prompted to update my Dashboard even after updating to the latest version?

When the ArchVision Dashboard updates it will remove existing Dashboard related keys from your registry. Sometimes Internet Security/System Security products will prevent applications from writing/deleting from a registry. This can result in registry keys causing the Dashboard to prompt for an update upon initialization. This can easily be resolved by following these steps:

1. Open the registry editor by clicking on Start–>Run and then enter “regedit”
2. When the registry editor opens navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREArchVisionBeacon
3. Locate any ArchVision Dashboard key prior to the current version and delete it.
4. Delete any ArchVision Content Manager Keys.
5. Exit the Registry Editor.

Launch Dashboard again and you will not be prompted to update again.

My application is not listed in the available Dashboard Plug-ins. Where can I find it?

Launch Dashboard again and you will not be prompted to update again.

Depending on your application, you may not require a separate RPC Plug-in. Some applications like Revit , MicroStation and Accurender are RPC enabled. However, to enable Drag and Drop into Revit 2013 and Revit 2014 ArchVision Dashboard must be installed.
Older RPC Plug-in installers can be downloaded here:
https://archvision.com/rpcplugins

Which applications support Drag & Drop with Dashboard?

Dashboard enables 2.0 Drag & Drop in Revit 2013 or later, 3ds Max and AutoCAD. RPC plug-ins must be installed into 3ds Max and AutoCAD to enable Drag & Drop functionality.

What do the colors in ArchVision Dashboard mean?

The red icon indicates that content is available for download. A blue icon indicates that content is currently in the local path of the Dashboard 2.0. A yellow icon indicates that content exists in the local path of the ArchVision Dashboard, but a restart is required for Revit to be able to access the RPCs.

How can I add paths to my content in Dashboard?

To add a content path in Dashboard 2.0 click on Preferences –> Configure Paths. The content will be scanned when Dashboard 2.0 is restarted. Detected content will have a blue icon next to it indicating that drag & drop is enabled.

Paths provided for the downloaded directory are automatically scanned by the Dashboard. However, only one download destination can be specified.

Where can I get an ArchVision Dashboard?

The ArchVision Dashboard can be downloaded here:
https://archvision.com/dashboard

When configuring my firewall, what urls should I allow ArchVision Dashboard to access?

When configuring Firewalls and Internet Security Products, modifications may be required to allow the ArchVision Dashboard to communicate with necessary Network and Internet resources

https://dashboard.archvision.com/Account/MyAccountDashboard
https://dashboard.archvision.com/buy
https://archvision.com/Account/LogOn
https://archvision.com/rss/dashboard/SoftwareItems.xml
http://help.archvision.com
http://services.archvision.com/
https://lic.archvision.com (for Administrators)
http://s3.amazonaws.com

All https:// connections are on port 443

All http:// connections are on port 80.

Local plug-in connections are made using UDP port 14031, TCP port 14931.

When adding content in Revit via Drag & Drop, why can’t I Drag & Drop into 3ds Max?

When Drag & Drop is connected for Revit it is necessary to click on Preferences and change Default Applications to Other Supported Applications.

ArchVision Software License

What is the difference between the Node-Lock and Floating License?

Node Lock licenses are intended for a single user. When purchased a user is sent an activation code. The first user to login and enter this activation code will have their ArchVision.com account attached to the license.

Floating licenses are intended to be shared in a network environment. Only one user can access the license at a time, but any users can access the license. Initially an activation code will need to be entered so that one user on the network has the license, but then after one user has the license all other users on the network with ArchVision Dashboard installed should automatically find the license. Each user should use their own ArchVision.com account to login to Dashboard. No purchase is necessary by network users to be able to detect the license, just a valid ArchVision.com account.

Can I use my Node-Lock license on a second computer?

Yes, the Node-Lock license can be used on a work computer and home computer. Not simultaneously though.

How do I activate my license?

When an order is placed ArchVision’s server generates an activation code. The license is then assigned to the e-mail address associated with the account.

If the license was purchased by someone other than the end-user they can use the code to make themselves and administrator and reassign the license to the correct e-mail address.

Floating licenses are similar except that instead of just allowing one user to be associated with the license, multiple users can be added to the license pool.

Watch a video overview of the process here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppMrKU9eers

How can I add users to a Floating license pool?

When logged in as an Administrator there is an option for License Administration. Clicking on this will reveal the activation code and allow the Administrator to add/remove users from the license pool. All users in the pool will have access to the license but only one user concurrently. Please view a video of this process here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppMrKU9eers

Does the Archvision Software License automatically renew upon expiration?

Yes, the license will automatically renew at the end of the year and the purchasing agent’s credit card will be billed. Please contact support@archvision.com prior to the renewal date if you wish to cancel. Refunds are not given after automatic renewal.

Where can I purchase an ArchVision Software License?

ArchVision Software Licenses can be purchased inside the ArchVision Dashboard or at https://archvision.com/plans

If I want to use a Floating license on (2) computers but have only one seat, can I do this?

No. Floating licenses are intended to be shared, but just one user concurrently per license purchased.

Can I share my login credentials with another user?

The sharing of login credentials is not allowed. A single seat license is intended for one user. Not only is this in accordance with the license agreement, but if someone logs into your account you will be disconnected from your license resulting in watermarks.

What about if I login from a different machine?

Single User

The single user license can be accessed from any computer. However, if you were logged on at a different computer the license will be removed from this machine soon after the license is accessed from the second computer.

Floating License

If a license is in use it is necessary for the current user to release it by click on “release license” (in the system tray) or exiting the Dashboard to make it available to a different user. However, it cannot be knocked off by subsequent login attempts.

Website Questions

What is the sales tax on orders?

Sales tax is only applicable to customers in Kentcuky, USA. There is no sales tax charged to customers in other locations. International VAT taxes may be added on shipped goods according to International Customs requirements.

Why am I not able to login?

Make sure that cookies are enabled. If you have difficulty try deleting cookies. Make sure that log-in sessions are allowed.

What is the return policy?

The return policy is availble here: https://archvision.com/footer/terms

What are the delivery options?

Order delivery options vary per item. Some items are only available for electronic download others are only available for physical delivery. Many items offer multiple delivery options. Physical deliveries are via USPS and UPS. USPS Ground is $10.00 (usually 3-5 days), UPS Next Day shipping is $30.00 and International (outside of the US) is $35.00 (varies depending on product and customs department).

How can I update my e-mail address?

Login to www.archvision.com and click on My Account to update Billing Information and associated e-mail address and password.

What is the difference between ArchVision and VisMasters?

ArchVsion and VisMasters are the same company. ArchVision products were historically only sold at www.archvision.com. VisMasters was designed to provide a community for Design Visualization. Products from many different manufacturers were sold at VisMasters.com. To consolidate product offerings and focus on new endeavors the website is now just https://archvision.com

Where can I find additional help documentation?

Additional help documentation, tutorials and movies are available here:
http://help.archvision.com

RPC Plug-Ins, RPC Enabled Apps And RPC Content

Can you render RPC content with the IRay renderer in 3ds Max?

Unfortunately RPCs are not compatible with IRay at this time. An IRay shader for RPC does not currently exist. Only gray planes will render.

AutoCAD: Is the RPC Plug-in for AutoCAD free?

The RPC Plug-in for AutoCAD requires the purchase of an ArchVision Software LIcense. Please purchase one here:

https://archvision.com/plans

3ds Max: The RPC Plug-in is loaded but I do not see any RPC Objects. How do I access my RPCs?

The ArchVision Dashboard manages paths to content. It is necessary to configure a path from 3ds Max to the ArchVision Dashboard to get this path information. This is performed under the Configure Content dialog. Enter the address 127.0.0.1 to connect to a local Dashboard. Please see complete instructions for getting started with RPC in your applications here:

http://help.archvision.com

LightWave: Where can the RPC Plug-in for LightWave be purchased?

There are no plans for future versions of the RPC Plug-in for LightWave at this time. This product is not longer available for purchase from www.archvision.com. It is not actively in development.

Revit: Does the RPC Environment work with Revit?

Unfortunately this RPC is not compatible with Revit.

What is the RPC Shadow Plug-in? (Legacy)

The RPC Shadow Plug-in was used to automatically create projection mapped shadows. This tool only works with the scanline renderer. It will not work with mental Ray or V-Ray. It has been retired. The manual process for creating projection mapped shadows is available here:

http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/projection_map_shadows.html

Where can I find the RPC Plug-ins for Autodesk 2016 products?

Like most newer RPC Plug-ins the installer is provided via the ArchVision Dashboard. Please download an ArchVision Dashboard here:

https://archvision.com/dashboard

RPCs: What are the different types of RPCs?

Planar Content

2D= 1 View created by one jpg and alpha image. Always faces the camera. 2.5D= 1 View with an animated sequence of images. Always faces the camera. 3D= 360 degrees of views. Different view for every camera angle. 3.5D= 360 degrees of views and animated walking sequence. Different view for every camera angle. Low Poly Content 3D + = Low poly models with textures baked on. Different view for every camera angle.

Content labeled as RPC Stills These have 8-views or less. They are intended for creating still renderings.

Content labeled as RPC Animation These have a full 360 degrees of rotation and work great for animations. Most content is about 600 pixels tall. Some content is labeled as Hi-Res. Hi-Res Content is about 2500 pixels tall.

I want to use RPCs with Revit LT, but I’m not finding a plug-in. Is support available?

Drag and Drop is not supported, but it is possible to add RPC objects to Revit LT projects. Instructions are available here:

http://help.archvision.com/revit/revitlt.html

Where are RPC Plug-in for Revit plug-in files installed to?

Revit

C:Program FilesArchVisionRevit Plug-in2016DragAndDrop
C:Program FilesArchVisionRevit Plug-in2016Entourage Workshop
C:Program FilesAutodeskRevit Architecture 2016PlugIns
C:ProgramDataAutodeskRAC 2016Family TemplatesEnglish_I
C:ProgramDataAutodeskRevitAddins2016
%localappdata%ArchVisionAVRevitPlugin2016

Entourage Workshop

C:Program FilesArchVisionRevit Plug-in2016Entourage Workshop %localappdata%ArchVisionEntourage Workshop2016 %appdata%ArchVisionEntourage Workshop

3ds Max: How is network rendering configured?

View configuration instructions here: http://help.archvision.com/dashboard/tutorials/network_rendering.html View backburner configuration here: http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/network_rendering.html

3ds Max: How should I configure RPCs when rendering with a mental Ray Daylight System?

Configuration documentation is available here: http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/mental_ray_daylight.html

Where can I get an RPC Plug-in for Adobe Photoshop?

An RPC Plug-in for ArchVision Viewport is no longer required. This tool is now built into ArchVision Dashboard. Simply install ArchVision Dashboard and you have everything you need to render and drag & drop into any photo-editing software that excepts .png or .TIF image formats.

Can I import RPCs placed in Revit into 3ds Max via fbx?

In Revit 2013 or later it is possible to export .fbx scenes from Revit and then import them into 3ds Max. Linkage functionality is not present at the time of writing this (3/9/16). Be sure and update to the latest version of Revit, 3ds Max and FBX before attempting this. Not all versions of Revit or FBX worked correctly. Have a specific question about .fbx, please e-mail support@archvision.com.

ArchVision Viewport: My Content is rendering with a watermark. What is going on?

Most content and applications require the purchase of a license or it will render watermarked. ArchVision Viewport requires the purchase of an ArchVision Software license or Content will render watermarked.

A license can be purchased here:
https://archvision.com/plans

I need to re-download my PlugIn for lightwave 64. Where can I get this?

The installer can be downloaded here:

https://archvision.com/rpcplugins

What is RPC?

RPC stands for Rich Photorealistic Content. The term RPC is used to describe the software and content associated with ArchVision’s award-winning Image-Based Rendering Technology. RPC is also the file extension for our image-based content. RPC is supported in the most popular 3D graphics and design visualization applications including 3DS Max®, Autodesk Viz®, Autodesk Revit, Autodesk Architectural Desktop, Accurender® from Robert McNeel and Associates, Bentley Systems’ Microstation ®, Adobe Photoshop ®, Trimble’s SketchUp ®, Informatix’ Piranesi, Maxon Cinema 4D®, New Tek’s LightWave® and more.

Piranesi: Where do I get the RPC Plug-in for Piranesi?

Piranesi is RPC Enabled. No plug-in is required.

3ds Max: Why are my RPC People and Trees hovering?

One of the limitations that result from the way that RPC images are captured is that the apparent depth changes around the feet of the RPCs. This causes the “feet” of our human content to rise in the texture as they spin on the turntable. In most scenes this will be unnoticeable. You can carefully tweak the position of the RPC by moving it up or down relative to the ground plane to compensate for this shift. If you are creating an animation you can animate the physical position of the model to keep the bottom of the RPC content against the floor if required.

Microstation: Can I edit RPCs within my scene?

Editing RPC cells: Key in: RPC edit to edit an existing RPC cell. You will be prompted to select the RPC cell you wish to edit. Select the RPC cell in a view. You can then change the name of the RPC file that is associated with the cell, and the height or width of the cell. As you change the height or width, the size of the RPC cell will be scaled to reflect the current dimensions. If you select a different RPC filename, the height of the cell will be maintained, but the width will be adjusted to the aspect ratio of the RPC. Enter a data point in a view to apply changes to the cell.

What applications are supported/compatible with the ArchVision Software License?

Applications that connect to the Dashboard will support ArchVision Software License.

These applications include:

McNeel & Associate’s Rhino
Adobe Photoshop
Autodesk 3ds Max & 3ds Max Design
Autodesk AutoCAD
Autodesk Revit
Autodessys FormZ
Bentley Microstation
Luxology Modo
Trimble SketchUp 3D

How does RPC work?

RPC technology uses high quality 2D image data to create the illusion of 3D. By synthesizing the right images as the camera moves through the scene, these images effectively reproduce the appearance of a three dimensional object without relying on complex polygonal geometry.

Revit: I have a license and am connected to it, but I’m still getting Watermarks in 2012 or later. Why is this?

The Problem: When changes are made to RPC configuration in Revit, an rpcapi.ini file is written to %appdata%AutodeskREVITAUtodesk Revit Architecture 2012. The issue lies in the fact that at Render time, Revit is looking for a license and not checking here. It is instead referencing C:Program FilesAutodeskRevit Architecture 2012Program.

The Solution: Configure the ACM connection in Revit (under the Render Settings found in Options) and then copy the rpcapi.ini file created from %appdata%AutodeskREVITAUtodesk Revit Architecture 2012 to C:Program FilesAutodeskRevit Architecture 2012Program. Once the rpcapi.ini with correct configuration information is located in this directory Revit will be able to access the license the next time that it is initialized.

Update: This note applies to later versions of Revit as well.

3ds Max: I tried to apply a modifier to one of the people and it didn’t work. Why?

RPC was not designed to work with modifiers. Because RPC uses 2D image data instead of geometry to represent an object, there is no geometric model to modify.

3ds Max: Can I change the color of a part of an RPC?

No. Because RPC uses 2D image data instead of geometry to represent an object it is not possible to select parts of the mesh and color.

Accurender: What is Accurender?

Developed by Robert McNeel and Associates, Accurender is high-end rendering plug-in that has been integrated into many products like AutoCAD and Architectural Desktop.

ArchVision Viewport: Why is ArchVision Viewport grayed out?

The ArchVision Viewport plug-in only functions when an image file is already open in PhotoShop. If you want to make an image using an RPC from scratch, then create a new file. Otherwise, open an image and then go to the ArchVision Viewport.

Update: ArchVision Viewport is now present in the ArchVision Dashboard. No plug-in is required.

3ds Max: Do I need a plug-in license for 3ds Max?

The RPC Plug-in for 3ds Max requires the purchase of an ArchVision Software license. Without a license, content (subscription or non-subscription) will render watermarked.

Can I view the RPC from any angle, even overhead?

The majority of RPC objects were designed to be viewed from eye level. Therefore, there is no image data of the object from above or below. However, we have found that RPC holds up very effectively until the camera reaches an angle of 40 degrees above the ground plain. We encourage you to experiment with the demo to better understand these limitations. 3D Plus content (ie. RPC Cars, Office Clutter and Indoor Plants) can be viewed from above because these contain a geometric hull underneath the textures.

Update: RPC 3D+ People produced by AXYZ Design can be viewed from above. These are sold separately (not included with the ArchVision Software License).

Microstation: How do I identify RPC File Properties?

RPC File Properties: Both the RPC Place and RPC Edit tools can display properties and a preview of the RPC file by clicking the Show Properties button in the lower right corner of the tool settings window. Properties displayed include: Images: The Number of increments around the object for which images have been stored. Frames: The number of frames that are stored for each increment around the object. Rings: The number of rings of images that are stored vertically around the object. Image size: The size (width, height) of an image in pixels. Object size: The size (width, height) of the real world object in inches. Gait: The distance in inches that the object needs to travel for each loop of motion. Loop time: The elapse time in seconds for each loop of motion.

Revit: How do I begin using RPC Objects in Revit?

You can view the Getting Started document here:

http://help.archvision.com/revit/revit.html

Revit: My Content is rendering with a watermark. What is going on?

Revit 2013 or later requires the purchase of an ArchVision Software License. Otherwise it will render watermarked. If you have purchased a license, please make sure that the ArchVision Dashboard is running, the license is present and Revit is configured to connect to this as shown in the Getting Started documentation available here:

http://help.archvision.com/revit/revit.html

3ds Max: What are RPC Proxy Helpers?

Learn all about RPC Proxies and Helpers here:

http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/rpc_proxy_helpers.html

Can I alter the color of RPC automobiles?

It is not possible. RPCs are created from photographic textures baked onto a mesh and then turned into RPC files. It is not possible to change the color.

How many RPCs can I add to my scene?

It is possible to add thousands of RPCs. The number is completely dependent on the amount of memory available at render time. Once memory is depleted you will receive an out of memory message and the RPCs will be unloaded from the scene. This is not an issue for most 64-bit users. ArchVision Support has encountered scenes with 5000+ RPCs and scene memory issues with just a handful of RPCs and complex rendering calculations.

What is the Mass Edit Tool?

Learn all about the Mass Edit tool here:

http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/mass_edit_tool.html

Piranesi: I only see part of the RPC. What am I doing wrong?

Make sure that the pixel lock is set to a mode that will accommodate RPCs being added to the scene.

AutoCAD: How do I place RPCs into AutoCAD?

You can view the Getting Started document here:

http://help.archvision.com/autocad/autocad.html

What does RPC do?

RPC provides a way to represent complex objects in computer visualization projects without relying on polygonal geometry. The RPC approach results in faster rendering time and in a marked improvement in finished image quality over traditional geometry-based solutions.

3ds Max: How can I change an RPCs’ opacity or create a silhouette?

This process can be viewed here:

http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/manual_rpc_silhouettes.html

also see:

http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/material_modifier_script.html

Revit: How can I get RPC Silhouettes in Revit?

ArchVision’s Entourage Workshop provides the ability to modify RPC styles, create silhouettes, modify opacity and more in Revit. Learn about this tool here:

https://archvision.com/entourageworkshop

3ds Max: How do I configure a walking person or car not to move for a given amount of time?

A tutorial showing how to to this is available here:

http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/keying_zero_speeds.html

Microstation: How can I place RPCs into Microstation?

View the process for adding RPCs to a Microstation drawing here:

http://help.archvision.com/microstation/microstation.html

3ds Max: How do I get shadows to cast in mental Ray?

This process is documented here:

http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/mental_ray_daylight_shadows.html

Also see:

http://help.archvision.com/dashboard/tutorials/rpcshadowtheory.html

3ds Max: Where can I find help with lighting?

Learn about lighting behavior here:

http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/configuring_lighting.html

also see:

http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/mental_ray_daylight.html

Photoshop: Where can I find the RPC Plug-in for Photoshop?

An RPC Plug-in for Photoshop is no longer required. Use the ArchVision Dashboard’s viewport mode to easily add RPCs to Photoshop. View the usage tutorial here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPlQm4DWxyE

Can RPCs be rendered in Autodesk Cloud Rendering?

RPCs obtained via an ArchVision software License will render with RAAS Cloud Rendering for Revit 2014 R2 or later.

Maya: Is RPC supported in Maya?

A third party developed support for RPC in Maya in version 5.0. Support was continued through version 6.0. In version 6.5 the code stopped functioning. Currently there is not support for RPC in Maya. The RPC Plug-in for Maya sold at www.archvision.com was discontinued after the release of Maya 6.5.

3ds Max: My Content is rendering with a watermark. What is going on?

Some content and applications require the purchase of a license or it will render watermarked. 3ds Max requires the purchase of an ArchVision Software license or Content will render watermarked.

Also make sure that paths are configured through the ArchVision Dashboard only. External file paths configured in 3ds Max will also cause watermarks.

3ds Max: I’m using a mental Ray daylight system. How do I configure lighting for my RPCs?

Tutorials are available for mental Ray settings here:

http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/mental_ray_daylight_shadows.html http://help.archvision.com/3dsmax/tutorials/mental_ray_daylight.html

3ds Max: Why are my RPCs being duplicated when rendering?

This occurs when force 2-sided is turned on in the rendering options. Turning off this will eliminate the problem. Alternatively if this adversely affects the scene try disabling cast reflections.

What if I am not pleased with the RPC plug-in or RPC content, what is ArchVision’s Return Policy?

ArchVision supplies a fully functioning demonstration version of the RPC plug-in with sample content for customers to familiarize themselves with the RPC technology and its content. Due to the nature of the software and its security, once authorized we cannot de-activate it. Therefore, after the RPC plug-in has been purchased and authorized it is not returnable.

Accurender: Do I need an RPC Plug-in if I have Accurender?

Accurender can place RPCs without a plug-in. However, the AutoCAD plug-in is another means of inserting them even when rendering with Accurender.

Accurender: Why do I sometimes see black squares when I render RPC people or trees in my scene?

By default Accurender will only render through 3 layers of transparency. In Accurender under Raytrace Settings, quality tab, you can set transparency to a higher number and it will fix the problem.

3ds Max: Why do my RPCs not appear to be standing on the floor when I place them close to a wall in my scene?

Because the texture maps are really two-dimensional maps, the illusion of depth in the texture maps varies as objects are placed in close proximity to an RPC. In this case moving the RPC content a foot or two away from other objects should fix the problem.

Microstation: Does MicroStation support 3.5D or 2.5D Motion RPCs?

RPC cells that contain walking people can be included in actors to allow the RPC cell to move during an animation. Animated RPC files contain 30 frames per second of animation. The total distance in inches the RPC cell should move during an entire animation can be determined by the following formula: distancePerFrame = Gait / (30 * Loop time) distance = animationFrames * distancePerFrame where: animationFrames is the total number of frames in your animation. Other animated RPC files (such as fountains and 2.5D people) do not have to be defined as actors in order to be animated.

Revit: Are 2.5D and 3.5D RPCs supported in Revit?

Yes, however only the first frame will render. The animated sequence will not render.

SketchUp: Are RPCs compatible with SketchUp?

An RPC Plug-in for SketchUp is actively in development. You can learn more about this product and try it out here. RPCs can be placed/rendered with the iRender plug-in for SketchUp by RenderPlus. Support for RPCs by other rendering engines are also in the works. Discover what other projects ArchVision is working on at labs.archvision.com.

When installing an RPC Plug-in I receive a message that Windows SmartScreen prevented an unrecognized app from starting.

Please disregard thie message. If you have downloaded an RPC Plug-in from www.archvision.com it has been signed and is safe. Simply click on More info and then Run anway.

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