Converting MAX formats between versions

#1 Max is backward compatible with its file formats. Meaning you can open a 2.5 file in 4. But you won't be able to then open that 4 file in 2.5. Unless you find a way to make 4 save in the 2.5 file format.

#2 Actually, I tried loading a 2.5 MAX file and it didn't recognize it. This is why I asked, mainly.

#3 I would just use a different format for the mesh. I don't know you can use 2.5 with the exporter but you can use 4. Make the model export ready with 4.
Wht would would you want to go through all the troubl of going back and forth?

#4 I have never had a problem with loading work that I have done in Max R2.x into Max R3.1, R4.2x, and R5. The only issue that you might get could be a missing plugin error (ie. the file uses a plugin that you have in a previous version but is not loaded into this version) but this should not inihibit the loading of a file.

Logan

#5 I think Matt the reason he wants to do this has probably got something to do with creating new dts models for Starsiege tribes, as this used a dts export compatible with max 2.5.
Just a geuss

#6 You can load files created in older versions of Max into newer versions, ie; Max 5 will happily read Max 1 files, but the only way to get a model created in a later revision of Max into an earler one is to export then import using the 3DS or DXF formats.

This is a pain and I really wish Discreet would allow you to save your files as earlier Max versions much like MS Word lets you save your documents as any previous version.

#7 You could also try 3rd party file solutions like FilmBox, PolyTrans, and Deep Explorer. I do not know how compatible they are with previous versions of the software but the solution that they give will be better than nothing.

Logan