Time Range Manager

Time Range Manager supports 3ds Max 2019 through 2023. Version 2.8 updated the FBX export settings to Max 2023. It ships as an .mzp file, and because range data is stored in INI files rather than inside a maxfile, the saved ranges, sets and projects stay independent of any particular scene file. If you run a version outside the listed 2019 to 2023 range, check the developer's page for current details before relying on it.

Time Range Manager exports animations to FBX using either the currently loaded ranges or time tags as the source for the exported animation name and time range. Both options let you export the whole scene when nothing is selected, or export by selection. Output files are saved to the current Max scene folder, and you can optionally choose some exposed FBX settings through a separate dialog. Note that FBX will attempt to use the keys set on the selection, which can override the time range you set, so the developer suggests animating export bones indirectly through constraints.

Time Range Manager can split a composite maxfile animation, where many sequences run one after another, into separate maxfiles based on stored ranges or time tags. The script removes all keys on selected objects either side of a specific range, moves the remaining keys within the range to start at frame 0, adjusts the time range to fit, then saves a new maxfile into the same scene folder as the original. This function has only been tested on regular controllers, CAT rigs and Biped; expressions, constraints or parametric controllers may not work.

Time Range Manager recognizes cameras in the scene through the ranges dropdown list, based on a range name prefix matching the camera name. When a matching range is selected, the currently selected viewport switches to that camera automatically if it is available. For example, with cameras named Cam1, Cam 2 and Cam3, the range names use those prefixes to trigger the switch. This ties camera changes to the same dropdown you use to change the scene time range, so ranges and their associated cameras are handled together.

Time Range Manager is listed as free here in our catalog. For current licensing terms and any conditions on use, check the developer's page, since these can change over time. The script is distributed as an .mzp file for 3ds Max and supports versions 2019 through 2023. Version 2.8 also added a toolbar icon and a link to the online guide in the About section, alongside the updated FBX export settings for Max 2023.