Using PSD's in FX shaders

Rigging
1

Hi all,
I am testing a new pipeline for using PSD layers with DirectX shaders within 3DS Max 2010.

When you select a PSD as a diffuse texture it asks for PSD Input options. I select Individual Layer and a “diffuse” layer that I have created in the PSD. This displays correctly.

Have noticed an issue with selecting the same PSD as a texture more than once:
If I then select another map, in this case Normal Map and choose the same PSD it will once again ask me for which layer to use. I choose the “Normal” layer I have created in the PSD. This displays an image but uses the layer from the diffuse texture I selected earlier.

The PSD seems to use the layer I select first for all maps (this can be any layer not just the top or diffuse etc) that use the PSD regardless of the layer.

Is there a way to stop this happening so I can display different layers of the PSD in Max using DirectX shaders?

Cheers,

Gareth

P.S.
Just so you know I am not using these PSD’s in game. They are converted on export to condensed channels and a better format. But it is easier for the artists to create textures when they can use just one PSD.

2

We have a similar structure at IOI, with diffuse,normal and spec within different groups in the PSD files that is exported to a proprietary format containing multiple dxt’s. I would also REALLY love if there was a way to use the contents of these groups individually in an FX shader. Because it’s a pita to have to save them out seperately.