Distributed Rendering Environment (DRE)
The Distributed Rendering Environment (DRE) at Purdue is part of the High Performance Classroom (HPC) initiative.
The DRE allows students to render 3D models and animations on several computers distributed across the campus.
The DRE is a joint project between Teaching and Learning Technologies, the Envision Center, and Research Computing Services.
DRE Enhances Teaching and Learning
The DRE allows students to accomplish complex animation and 3D rendering much more quickly than they can on their
own computers. With about 2000 computers available nightly, their jobs can be ready in hours rather than days.
The problems/homework faculty can now assign can be expanded to accommodate the needs of the lessons rather than
the time students have available to spend in computer labs.
Accessing the Distributed Rendering Environment
Currently, the DRE is available through a Maya plug-in available in the Windows ITaP labs. To use this service, you must be familiar with using Maya and understand the basics of 3D rendering.
Resources
 Digital Learning Collaboratory
Maya FAQ from Alias Systems Corp.
Well Wishers
an animation rendered on the DRE
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