Chaos’ cloud rendering platform, Chaos Cloud, lets users enjoy simple, fast, and smart rendering – without relying on local hardware configurations or virtual machines – all directly within V-Ray‘s UI.
So, What is Cloud Rendering?
When rendering projects from 3D applications, users will usually use local hardware—the CPU and GPU inside their computer—to do the work. On the other hand, cloud rendering is when the rendering job is sent over the Internet to a remote computer to be processed there without using local hardware.
One of the main benefits of cloud rendering is that users don’t need to invest lots of money into powerful computers with expensive graphics cards and CPUs. Remote rendering computers, like the ones used by Chaos Cloud, are also vastly more powerful than the average home or business computer. A typical user would have one render node to work on the job, but cloud rendering services often have thousands at their disposal to work on a job. This means that high quality renders can be completed considerably faster.
Using your local hardware to complete renders might slow down the computer quite considerably. For many, rendering locally means not being able to work on anything else. With cloud rendering, local hardware is not used. This means the user’s computer is free to be used for other tasks – such as starting a new modelling project while the cloud processes your renders elsewhere!
Who is Cloud Rendering For?
Cloud rendering is ideal for any business or hobbyist that produces renders! Architects, interior designers, landscape designers, industrial designers, product designers, film production, set designers engineers, etc can all make the most of their projects with cloud rendering.
Chaos Cloud is built into V-Ray, and works with all V-Ray licences across all supported software (SketchUp, Rhino, 3DS Max, Revit, Cinema4D, FormZ, Maya, Houdini, Nuke and Blender).
Key Features of Chaos Cloud
Smart Sync
Chaos Cloud automatically uploads exactly what it needs to render. Whenever your scene is updated, it only re-syncs the data that’s changed, keeping your upload times to the absolute minimum.
Live View
Watch your image or animation progress as it happens, from anywhere on any device. As soon as you submit a job, you can monitor the rendering from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
Remote Control
Adjust your job settings in the Chaos Cloud dashboard without having to resubmit your scene.
Smart Vault
Chaos Cloud stores your projects in the cloud, including assets, so you only need to upload them once.
Cost Control
Manage your upfront cost upon job submission of still images and download detailed reports on credit consumption.
How Does Chaos Cloud Rendering Work?
The exact steps to rendering with Chaos Cloud varies slightly depending on your modelling software. However, Cloud Rendering software can be found on the V-Ray panel. The Video below demonstrates how to prepare your scene for rendering with Chaos Cloud.
Chaos have a fantastic playlist of tips and tricks for getting the best results when rendering with Chaos Cloud.
If you’re a CAD Software Direct customer, you can contact our helpdesk for more information about rendering with Chaos Cloud in your modelling software.
Can I Try Chaos Cloud?
Yes – a free trial of V-Ray includes Chaos Cloud which you can find here. This includes 20 credits to get started. If you already have a V-Ray Premium or Enterprise licence, your account also comes with free credits to use.
What is a Credit, and How Many Do I Need?
Credits are spent when sending a job off to render on the cloud platform. How many credits are used depends on the complexity of the job. A 4K animation is going to use a lot more credits than a static HD image. It is important to note that credits can also be used in fractions, meaning the 20 free credits could do much more than 20 jobs – depending on how they are used.
Take a look at some example scenes to decide how many credits is right for you. It is easy to add more credits to your account as well, whether you have run out, or just think you’ll need more.
Where Do I Buy Chaos Cloud?
Chaos Cloud is accessed through V-Ray, which is available at CAD Software Direct. Cloud credits can also be purchased to top up an account. If you’re undecided, why not try V-Ray free?