File I/O Path Configuration

This panel contains most of the file directories used for storing files.

Note: By default these paths are relative to the project folder. See the Project topic under File-Handling Commands for more information.

Interface

Animations

Path for animation files, including XAF, XMM, BIP, FIG, MFE, and so on.

Archives

Path for archive files.

AutoBackup

Sets the default path for automatic backup files. If you use the Auto Backup feature, use either the \autoback directory, which is specific to each running version of 3ds Max, or a directory not shared by any other machine.

BitmapProxies

Path for proxy bitmaps. See Global Settings and Defaults for Bitmap Proxies dialog.

Downloads

Path for Web resources.

Export

Path for exported files.

Expressions

Path for text files used by expression controllers.

Images

Path for image files.

Import

Path for imported files.

Materials

Path for material library (MAT) files.

MaxStart

Path for maxstart.max, which provides initial 3ds Max scene settings.

Photometric

Path for photometric files, which define various characteristics of Photometric lights.

Previews

Path for preview renders.

RenderAssets

Path for rendering asset files, including shadow maps, photon maps, MI files, and render passes.

RenderOutput

Path for rendered output.

RenderPresets

Path for Render Preset files.

Scenes

Path for MAX scene files.

Sounds

Loads sound files.

VideoPost

Loads and saves Video Post queues.

Procedures

To modify a file path:

  1. On the Configure Project Paths dialog, click the File I/O panel, and choose a path entry.
  2. Click Modify.
  3. In the Choose Directory dialog, do one of the following:
    • Enter a path in the Path field.
    • Navigate to locate a path.
  4. Optional step: Enter a description of the path in the Label field.

    This description later appears in the path list.

  5. Click Use Path.

    The new path takes effect immediately.