Avid Technology is using SIGGRAPH to debut Softimage XSI 5.0. The latest release of the 3D animation software is offered in both 32-bit and 64-bit editions, allowing users to work with extremely complex scenes containing billions of polygons. Version 5.0 is also designed to exploit new dual-core processors and large amounts of physical memory, which Avid claims can effectively double production throughput.
New functions include Ultimapper, a map-generation tool that the manufacturer says produces cinema-quality maps in a few clicks. Gator is a property-transfer system that merges fully textured and animated 3D models. Dedicated migration tools for Maya users, including a customisable interface with corresponding keyboard and mouse assignments, are designed to ease the transition from the Alias application.
The Advanced edition also updates XSI Hair with a new grooming tool intended to give artists precise control over hair, fur, grass and trees. Syflex 3 cloth simulation is included in the Advanced package. Integration of the Ageia PhysX engine is intended to improve XSI performance for rigid-body dynamics.
Dot XSI 5.0 is also new, allowing artists to import and export models, materials, shaders and animations with source code. Version 5.0 now supports shape morphing, among other additions.
Softimage XSI 5.0 costs US$495 for the Foundation edition, US$1,995 for Essentials and US$6,995 for Advanced.
