How to convert 3DS files to Raydium TRI format

The current method use the following path : 3DS -> .3ds -> Blender -> .tri -> Raydium.
Blender is the key, here, since it's able to import 3DS files (mesh + textures) and able to export TRI files.

Step 1: Downloads

• Download Blender: http://www.blender.org/download/get-blender/
• Download Python, as asked by Blender (try to use the recommended version, at the end of Blender installation) : http://www.python.org/download/releases
• Download Raydium Blender scripts, available in source code and SDK. Direct link: http://raydium.org/svn.php?f=/trunk/triEXP-full.py

Step 2: Install

• Install Blender and Python (order does not matter)
• Copy triEXP-full.py in your "Blender private directory"
  • Linux: ~/.blender/scripts/
  • win32: C:\Documents and Settings\USER\Application Data\Blender Foundation\Blender\.blender\scripts

Step 3: Blender: first launch

• Delete all elements in the default scene (cube, light and camera)
  • select an element using right mouse button (you may have to zoom out, using mouse wheel, to see the camera object)
  • delete the selected element using 'x' key
• Save this empty scene as the "Default Settings" (see "File" menu, or use CTRL+u shortcut)
• You can now quit Blender, and launch it again to confirm that your default scene is now empty

Step 4: Import / Export

• Launch Blender
• Import the 3DS file, using the "File -> Import" menu (use default settings, just click "OK")
• You can have a look at your imported mesh using middle mouse button, and display textures using ALT+z
• Join all objects in one: select all objects (press 'a' key, you may have to press two times) and join all using CTRL+j
• You may remove doubles, to make the model lighter
  • select your object, press 'tab' key to swith to edit-mode
  • select all vertices ('a' key)
  • use "rem double" button, in the bottom panel (http://ftp.cqfd-corp.org/blender-rem-doubles.jpg)
• Export to Raydium using the "File -> Export" menu, using default settings ("Auto Quad -> Tri")

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