Converting textures to gain FPS

[ardypilot]

I've had a skim through the captainsim forums, and I think I can gain some performance with the exterior model of their B757 if I convert the texures using DXTbmp.

At the moment, each texture file is 1024x1024 16bit DXT3 format. Is it possible to convert and save it to another format, even if it means loosing a little quality in order to gain FPS when flying from spot view in fs2004?

I have already got rid of the VC cockpit and cabin from the model which gives a few FPS back, but not enough to make it flyable for me.

Cheers

[Charl]

DXT3 is as low as I'd go - the GNZLAP fleet is done to that resolution, and that's AI!
The capsim model is quite complex, I've noticed a frame drop on my rig which doesn't usually blink at a single aircraft.

[Zöltuger]

I agree, DXT3 is fine, DX1 will look awful and may only boost frames by 1 or 2

[hinch]

Ouch, this aircraft sounds un-optimised...like their 707. My poor PC!

Have you asked them how many polygons the exterior model has? I see you're reviewing it, so that may be a nice touch B)

[JonARNZ]

Captain sim have done something interesting with their 757 model in the way they have built it. It appears to be a group of separate models held together through xml code. I could be wrong, but this may explain the performance hit. Their base model with no gear etc is just under 29000 polygons. Their C130, which looks like it is built the same way, has around 43000. It would be interesting to understand the technical points around this.

Compare this with the default MS 747-400 6493 or the PMDG 747-400 43155 or the POSKY 767-300 31996.

[johanfrc]

Here you go: http://home.sprynet.com/~drawlins/AI_ai ... craft.html and http://www.ai-aardvark.com/modeling/LOD ... a_LOD.html