Striker

DDS is not a new format, MS used it in their last sim CFS3.

It is a format taylored toward 3D modelling.

You are correct it won't open with ordinary tools.

What you need is a utility called DXTBMP, it is freeware and allows you to open and view a large variety of formats used in the se sims. It also allows editing and saving in formats other than the original. Useful if not vital tool.

Here is the link:

http://www.mnwright.btinternet.co.uk/programs/dxtbmp.htm

Regards
Jasper

Hi Katahu, Striker.

DDS = Direct Draw Surface.

I don't know what the end difference is as far as we are concerned, however unless I am wrong I do believe DDS is one of microsoft's own whereas BMP of course isn't. That might explain why they use it.

Since my last post on this I have found out there is also an Adobe Photoshop plugin which handles DDS, although personally just for everyday use I would recommend Martin Wright's utility (link in previous post)

With Martin's utility it is a simple matter to work on the desired DDS as if it were a BMP, even through any other paint utility and save in virtually any format you desire.

Regards
Jasper

Short answer, yes DDS does a bit more.

Although bitmaps could do as much, I believe the reason for using DDS is partly because it does things more efficiently and with less file size.

I also thought of editing the FSX VC's so I could see out of the windows. However I only had a brief look at the visuals and did not find a method of editing. I assume / hope it could just be a simple matter of transparancy correction ?

I ran out of time because of writing a new config & airfile for the 'FSX' Piper cub.


Jasper