Need some help with 3ds max

[Jefferies]

I’m looking for some help with 3D Studio Max 5, which I have been using to modify a pre-existing model.

For some reason that, for the life of me, I cannot figure out, the mesh has become unstable and looks flickery with zig-zags along edges that should be straight. This is hardly noticeable in the editing mode but shows up when the model is rendered.

I suppose I have applied some modifier or something that has somehow corrupted my model. I hope one of you guys has an idea what I could do to mend my mesh.

I have attached some pictures so you can see what the effect looks like.

Thanks for any help you can provide.


P.S.
This seems to be some kind of bigger problem, it is affecting not just this model but most that I load with 3ds max.

 

[Psion]

I can't speak to 3DS Max, but when I see effects like that in Blender, it usually means I have a duplicate mesh occupying the same coordinates. Try moving your model around and see if it leaves anything behind.

 

[Redfern]

I've also seen a similar effect involving "back facing" polygons. Is there any function in Max that "forces" all polys to face outward or switch direction of their 'normals"?

Sincerely,

Bill

 

[Vektor]

I don't think it's a coincident face or normals issue. I think the first thing I would try is reinstalling my video drivers and making sure I was running the latest versions. Then again, if you're using Max 5, you could be dealing with a driver compatibility problem with the latest drivers; Max 5 is about five software generations old now.

 

[Jefferies]

Thank you for all your comments! I believe Vektor is correct with regard to the driver problem. I have now reinstalled 3ds max and graphic card drivers and everything is running fine again. Also certain bugs that seemed to have accumulated like the loss of the ability to move objects with the mouse instead of having to use coordinates have also resolved themselves.