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Connecting Cargo to Houdini

Elaine Deveney avatar
Written by Elaine Deveney
Updated over 2 weeks ago

Important Notes

If this is your first time using Houdini 21.0 (or any supported Houdini version), be sure to launch Houdini at least once before connecting Cargo to it.

Reinstallation of Houdini Plugin Required After Update

Due to changes in how Houdini is named in Cargo, this release will reset your existing Houdini / Cargo configuration. You'll need to follow the simple connection steps outlined in Basic Software setup and

What this means:

  • All previously configured Cargo / Houdini installations will no longer be recognized

  • You'll need to go through the software setup process, in Cargo, again to reconnect your Houdini installations (outlined below)

  • This is a one-time requirement for this release


Initial Setup

To connect Cargo to Houdini, first follow the Basic Software Setup guide.

Make sure you're using a supported Houdini version before attempting software setup. Check out our supported 3D software versions here.

Cargo supports Houdini versions:

20

20.5

21

Renderers:

Mantra
Karma (MaterialX)

Arnold

VRay


Accessing the Cargo Plugin in Houdini

After selecting your version of Houdini, Cargo will install all necessary files to your computer and ask you to activate your plugin.

  • The Cargo Houdini plugin activates itself automatically so as soon as you open Houdini you’re ready to import!

  • To check the status of the connection as well as modify settings you can open a KitBash3D Cargo Pane.

  • This option is added by the Cargo Houdini Plugin and will be available under the New Pane Tab Type dropdown.

When there’s a green check you’re ready to create!

Watch the Demo


Troubleshooting Houdini plugin installation errors

If Cargo cannot locate a supported version of Houdini during Basic software setup, review the steps below.

For All Platforms

Ensure you’ve launched Houdini before attempting to install the Cargo plugin.

Advanced Install

If Cargo still cannot locate a supported version of Houdini you can perform advanced installation

  • Click Advanced Setup, then select Houdini as the target 3D Software.

  • Cargo will now ask for you to point it towards your Houdini User Preferences Directory for the version you’re attempting to install the Plugin for.

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