how to write VDB files in Phoenix 3.0

[TomGore]

I've just ordered Phoenix FD 3.0
But I am not sure if output sim can be written in vdb format (I prefer to render volumetrics in octane render which handles vdb's via gpu very fast).
In the Phoenix manual there is this sentence:

Note that Phoenix FD can save the running simulation in both Phoenix FD Aur cache format, as well as the OpenVDB format. In order to export to OpenVDB, you need to manually provide a file path from the Browse... dialogue with the *.vdb extension. Also note that OpenVDB caches would contain only Grid Channels

I've tried to enter the filename like clouds.vdb but Phoenix returns an error on sim - invalid extension.

So, how to write sim in vdb files in Phoenix 3.0?

[tashko.zashev]

Hi,

It seems that our documentation has been updated before the new Phoenix SP release 3.00.02. However, you should have access to the Phoenix nightly builds where the OpenVDB file format is available from the Output/Browse dialogue. Please check the email you have received from our support system with your Phoenix purchase or go to nightlies.chaosgroup.com and use the same logins you are using for our web site and download the latest Phoenix 3.0 build.

[TomGore]

What are "nightly builds"? Just like beta testing versions in case of other plugins?
I am waiting for usb dongle, tomorrow should be ready so now I just tested the method on demo, perhaps thats why it doesnt work.

Is there any official changelog for 3.00.02 ?

thanks

[Svetlin.Nikolov]

Hey,

Nightly builds are Phoenix builds that get automatically prepared every night with all the latest changes we've done. You should get automatic access to them once you purchase Phoenix and you can check them at nightlies.chaosgroup.com. The VDB export was added to the nightlies after 3.00.01 was released, but now it's available in 3.00.02 which you can also get from the chaosgroup website - the changelog is also visible there.

Cheers!

[TomGore]

Hello, I've already purchased Phoenix and downloaded 3.00.02 version, having lot of fun. Is there something newer in nightly builds? All I see with my account on nightlies.chaosgroup.com are vray for blender folders listed day-by-day. No Phoenix there. Does any new nightly build have a small changelog every time it surfaces?

[tashko.zashev]

Hello, I've already purchased Phoenix and downloaded 3.00.02 version, having lot of fun. Is there something newer in nightly builds? All I see with my account on nightlies.chaosgroup.com are vray for blender folders listed day-by-day. No Phoenix there. Does any new nightly build have a small changelog every time it surfaces?

I just want to let you know that your account has been updated and you should be able to see the Phoenix nightly builds now. Lot-out and log-in again to reset the current session.
In regard to the changes we made to those builds, there is a changlog txt file in each folder where you can track down the most important updates and bug fixes. Svetlin would be able to share more details about that though.

[Svetlin.Nikolov]

That's right Currently the nightlies are just a couple of bugfixes ahead of 3.00.02, but the changes will pile up with time.