How do I use Octane Lights correctly?

[Straticus77]

In the 3DS Max plugin, creating a basic "Octane Light" never gives me consistent results. Either it's way too bright or does not emit light at all no matter what power setting I put. Is there a certain way I have to create these? And what setting do I need to put into the "Units Setup" options under the Customize menu?

Thanks!

[paride4331]

Hi Straticus77,
Octane Render thinks in meters, values entered are considered meters.
That said, value expressed in watt can be calculated considering simulated light source and its efficiency.
Personally for simulated illumination, I recommend using mesh emitters.
https://docs.otoy.com/3DS_Max_Reference ... ight=light
https://docs.otoy.com/3DS_Max_Reference ... s%7C_____1
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luminous_efficacy
Regards
Paride

[Straticus77]

Hi Straticus77,
Octane Render thinks in meters, values entered are considered meters.
That said, value expressed in watt can be calculated considering simulated light source and its efficiency.
Personally for simulated illumination, I recommend using mesh emitters.
https://docs.otoy.com/3DS_Max_Reference ... ight=light
https://docs.otoy.com/3DS_Max_Reference ... s%7C_____1
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luminous_efficacy
Regards
Paride

Thank you for all the help you've given me the last few days! I'll go ahead and use mesh emitters then.

[paride4331]

Hi Straticus77,
To reduce noise and speed up your renders using geometries as simple as possible.
Using a sphere, for example, make a sphere with 4 or 6 segments.
Regards
Paride