Upgrading the target .NET framework version to .Net 4.0

FAQ

1. How do I set up VS 2010 project files to target the v90 toolset ?

   In the project properties dialog, set Configuration Properties > General > Platform Toolset to v90. This will result in the $VCInstallDir macro to point to the installation folder of VC++ 9.0 SP1. The include, library and executable directory settings are relative to the value of the $VCInstallDir macro.

2. How do I change the .NET framework version in my plug-in's vcxproj file ?

   The project settings dialog of VS 2010 does not allow for setting the .NET framework version targeted by a project. Hence, a text editor is needed to modify the TargetFrameworkVersion value in the vcxproj file:

<PropertyGroup Label="Globals">

<TargetFrameworkVersion>Vx.x</TargetFrameworkVersion>

3. What are the .vcxproj.filter filters files? -

   The folders within a VS 2008 project file (known as filters) is stored by VS 2010 in a new file with the extension vcxproj.filters. When renaming, adding or removing files in a VS 2010 project file, both the .vcxproj and the .vcxproj.filters file are updated by VS 2010.

4. Does my plug-in need to install VS 2010 redistributables?

   In general, no. The 3ds Max 2012 installer should normally install the C++, .NET framework and other run-times required by 3ds Max and the majority of the plug-ins.

5. Why can't I attach VS 2008 to 3ds Max 2012 to debug my plug-in?

   Since 3ds Max 2012 targets .NET 4.0, VS 2008 can only be attached to it as "Native code".