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Rendering modes
 
 
 

Showcase is capable of displaying a scene either in Hardware rendering (top image above) or Ray Trace rendering mode. Each rendering mode has distinct properties and advantages, while all workflows and tools for data preparation, presentation, and output remain the same, regardless of which mode is used. Switching between Hardware and Ray Trace rendering modes is easy, and the appearance of the scene is maintained to the limits of each mode.

NoteHardware rendering is the default method of display for all scenes. To enable or disable Ray Tracing, select View > Ray Tracing or press R at any time.

Advantages of each rendering mode

Hardware rendering mode

Ray Trace rendering mode

NoteThe interactivity of each rendering mode is dependant on different computer specifications and the scene that is loaded. For Hardware rendering, the type and memory size of the video card will influence performance, while for Ray Trace rendering the number and speed of processors and cores will greatly effect performance.

What is ray tracing?

Ray tracing is a rendering method that produces highly realistic visuals by tracing “rays” from each rendered pixel into the 3D scene, which then bounce, bend and create visual effects similar to real light. In Showcase, ray tracing will be visually similar to hardware rendering, but adds many new effects.

Types of Ray Tracing effects

In addition to displaying what is seen in Hardware rendering, Ray Tracing creates visual effects that add to the quality of the image. Some of these effects are based on the materials in the scene, others require a particular Ray Tracing Quality preset to be used to see the effect. Some of the effects are listed below, in order or their appearance within presets.

See Also