[comp.graphics] Comparisons between SunVision and RenderMan

zhu@philabs.philips.com (Benjamin Zhu) (09/21/90)

Hi, folks!

I need some input. Our department is considering purchasing
a software package for volume visualization. Presently, we
have two packages in mind, SunVision and RenderMan. We have
the SunVision software here on a trial basis. However, we do
not have any direct experience in using Pixar's RenderMan.
It is unlikely that we can get hold of a copy for free.
Now here comes my question: have you used both packages
recently? How would you rank them? I need somewhat detailed
comparisons. Comments on other 3D visualization packages are
also welcomed. Please respond by email.

Ben

------------
Benjamin Zhu				(914) 945-6564
Philips Laboratories			zhu@philabs.philips.com

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zhu@philabs.philips.com (Benjamin Zhu) (09/21/90)

Hi, folks!

I need your input. Our department is considering purchasing
a software package for volume visualization. Presently, we
have two packages in mind, SunVision and RenderMan. We have
the SunVision software here on a trial basis. However, we do
not have any direct experience in using Pixar's RenderMan.
It is unlikely that we can get hold of a copy for free.
Now here comes my question: have you used both packages
recently? How would you rank them? I need somewhat detailed
comparisons. Comments on other 3D visualization packages are
also welcomed. Please respond by email.

Ben

------------
Benjamin Zhu				(914) 945-6564
Philips Laboratories			zhu@philabs.philips.com

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
//								//
//                    standard disclaimer			//
//								//
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

rick@pangea.Stanford.EDU (Rick Ottolini) (09/21/90)

In article <108567@philabs.Philips.Com> zhu@philabs.philips.com (Benjamin  Zhu) writes:
SunVision is an implementation of the RenderMan specification, that is one of
the five modules.  Another of the five modules is a CAD-like package for
building scenes rendered by RenderMan.

I guess your question would be better posed asking for how well each package
implmenents the RenderMan specification in terms of completeness, efficiency,
associated utilities, etc.