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I'm working on a software project which requires some 3D models. We hired a freelance modeler and she just delivered the first model in Collada format.

For now, I just want to see what it looks like (rendering will come later). I have tried:

  • Collada import plugin for Caligari trueSpace, by "Clintonman"

This one never worked. I followed the instructions for installation, but when I try to use it, it pops up an error message. Googling for the message didn't come up with anything.

  • Ballistic3D Collada model viewer

I can run this one, but when I open up the model, nothing appears. No errors or anything appear in the application log.

  • colladaAirViewer, by Anthony Scavarelli

I was able to install and run this one. When I try to load the model, it starts churning away, using 100% of CPU and 500MB of memory, but after 15 minutes, the model still doesn't appear.

colladaAirViewer is telling me that the model has 143104 triangles. Is it strange to have such a large number? Perhaps this is why it is taking so long to draw.

Can anyone recommend a better (free) model viewer, which works with Collada files?

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What's wrong with this question? I don't think it should be voted down – Vladtn Mar 18 '12 at 11:53
"Technical questions related to 3D software" are off-topic per the FAQ. – Farray Apr 10 '12 at 21:58
There is a proposal in Area51 for CG Artists that will answer questions like these. You may consider following: area51.stackexchange.com/proposals/38889/… – ckpepper02 May 10 at 13:06

closed as off topic by Scott, Jack, e100, Joonas, Farray Apr 10 '12 at 21:58

Questions on Graphic Design Stack Exchange are expected to relate to graphic design within the scope defined in the FAQ. Consider editing the question or leaving comments for improvement if you believe the question can be reworded to fit within the scope. Read more about closed questions here.

2 Answers

up vote 2 down vote

Try blender

It apparently support natively Collada

blender

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Thanks. I was going to try Blender, but someone I am working with tried it first and it crashed when trying to import a Collada model. – Alex D Mar 19 '12 at 12:53
But +1 for posting this information... – Alex D Mar 19 '12 at 12:56
I would try myself if I were you, Blender is quick to install! ;) – Vladtn Mar 25 '12 at 21:02
Yes, Blender is pretty quick to install, it is about 32megas. And the best, it is not ugly anymore (since 2.5) – magallanes Mar 26 '12 at 0:04
up vote 1 down vote

You might want to use Google Sketchup

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