Hi folks.  I was wondering if I could get some advice on exportig files into .3ds and .obj format.  I am preparing some model packages for my store, but I do not have 3DsMax etc, so I am not sure what Carrara export settings should be used for best compatibility.  If anyone has done this before, I would appreciate some advice.  I basically want to have a more common file format version of the models in the package to make them useful for non Carrara folks, as well as the Carrara 6 format files.  Thanks in advance.

Rich

I've had good luck with .obj

The Carrara .obj file will save material zones and polygon groups in forms that can be detected by other applications.  I do not believe the creasing information is saved, however.

The materials are enhanced by the .mtl file that is saved to your disk along with the .obj; this gives basic materials settings including a short path to external texture maps.

I have not worked with 3ds Max.  I have imported .obj into Bryce, Poser, and Carrara itself, and been happy with the results.

OBJ you can sell for more.  3DS is more for free give-away stuff (3DS models are triangulated and will annoy experienced modelers if they paid for them).

I may include all three formats to get maximum customer base.  Thanks for all of the info.