Managing Synoptic Files

A synoptic file is a text file written in a subset of HTML. It defines the image map as well as the script functions to run when hotspots are clicked. Note that the image itself is in a separate file that is referenced by the HTML.

Storing Synoptic Files

Although you can save synoptic files anywhere, you should keep them with your projects or Softimage data files for ease of maintenance.

• Use the Synoptic folder of the current project for files that are specific to that project, for example, for a synoptic file that was designed for use with a particular model. This is the default location.

• Use your User Application Data Path for generally useful synoptic files that you want to use in many different projects.

• Use the Workgroup Application Data Path for generally useful synoptic files that you want to share with others in your workgroup.

You can quickly switch between these paths using the Paths button in file browsers. You can set the data paths on the Data Management tab of the User Preferences dialog box.

| You can see where all your synoptic and other external scene files are stored using File > Source Paths.

Saving Synoptic Files

To save a synoptic file

Do one of the following:

• Choose File > Save from the synoptic view editor’s command bar.

or

• With the mouse pointer over the synoptic view editor, press Ctrl+s.

If the file has not been saved before, the Save As browser opens, allowing you to specify a file name and location.

To save a synoptic file with a new name

• Choose File > Save As from the synoptic view editor’s command bar. The Save As browser opens, allowing you to specify a file name and location.

Opening Synoptic Files

To open a synoptic file

Do one of the following:

• Choose File > Open from the synoptic view editor’s command bar.

or

• With the mouse pointer over the synoptic view editor, press Ctrl+o.

The Open browser opens, allowing you to specify a file name and location.

Starting New Synoptic Files

To start a new synoptic file

• Choose File > New from the synoptic view editor’s command bar.

If there are unsaved changes in the current synoptic file, you are prompted to save it first.

Autodesk Softimage v7.5