About Building in 3DML
Q. Do I need to
know 3D modeling to create 3DML spots?
A. No modeling necessary! 3DML creates 3D spaces out of simple
building blocks that have already been made by someone else. All
you have to do is put these blocks together into whatever shape
you wish.
Q.
Do I need to know how to program to create 3DML spots?
A. No! 3DML is a simple markup language like HTML. You will
need to write some code, but the code is very simple and easy to
learn. If writing code in C++ is like landscaping the gardens at
Versailles, then making spots with 3DML is more like repotting that
spider plant in your kitchen. You are going to get your hands dirty,
and you have to remember to water it when you are through, but just
a little effort will get you through it in no time. If you are already
familiar with HTML, then many aspects of 3DML will be familiar to
you. But even if you have never done any coding at all, 3DML is
probably well within your reach. Go through the step-by-step tutorial
to get familiar with the language.
Q.
Why can't I see the lights I put in my spot?
A. The AMBIENT_LIGHT and/or ORB light may be drowning out
your other lights. Turn your AMBIENT_LIGHT and ORB light down to
a very low level, something like 15%. Then check to see if you can
see your other lights are visible. If not, then you may need to
proofread your light tags. After you get your lights working the
way you want, then raise the AMBIENT_LIGHT and ORB light levels
back up if necessary.
Q.
I added to 2 new levels to my 3DML map, but I can't see them in
my spot. What gives?
A. You probably forgot to change your MAP tag to accommodate
the new levels.
Q.
Can I use Javascript in 3DML?
A. You can use Javascript commands in links, but not in other
parts of your 3DML file. So <EXIT> tags are the only places
where you will find Javascript commands in a 3DML file.
Q.
Can I use META tags in 3DML?
A. Yes. You can include META information in your spot files.
The syntax is exactly the same as it is for HTML.
Q.
How do I put comments in a 3DML file?
A. Type "<!--" at the beginning of the comment and "-->"
at the end of it. Like so:
<!--your
grandma eats ice cream with a fork-->
Q.
I can view my spot from my hard drive, but not from my Web server.
Why?
A. The 3DML MIME type may not be registered on your Web server.
Read the section on publishing
for instructions.
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