Issue:
3ds Max periodically freezes for a number of seconds during normal use.
The program may also be slow to use at times with no visible explanation.
Causes:
Includes, but is not limited to:
- Grouped objects.
- The auto save feature in 3ds Max is enabled and saving.
- ALC corruption.
- File bloat from empty motion clip or note track data.
- 3rd Party plug-ins.
Solution:
The solution may require one, or a combination of the following:
Check for plug-in issues
Reinstalling, or revalidating the plug-in license can resolve this issue.
Additional: Create a fresh scene and repeat the steps that cause the issue:
- If the issue is not present, the problem scene must be cleansed, or reimported with fresh objects.
- If the issue occurs in an empty scene, contact Autodesk Support.
Ungroup and Attach objects
Grouped objects impact performance on every click. The following provides instructions to collapse the grouped object:
- Ungroup the object.
- Choose one of the elements to be the primary.
- Use the ‘Attach’ feature in the Edit Poly/Mesh parameters
- Attach all the other elements to the primary. If a message appears about materials, choose the second option.
- Make sure that the object is only an Edit Poly/Mesh in the modifier stack.
- Test the viewport performance.
Check for ALC corruption
A scene containing objects downloaded and imported from a 3D vendor online may contain corrupted elements. Read more about this and how to resolve it here Third-party MAXScript (ALC) causes crashes, corruption, gives Script Controller error or breaks the Undo function in 3ds Max
Check for empty Motion Clips or Note Track data
A scene containing objects downloaded and imported from a 3D vendor online may contain empty motion clips. There are scripts to help clean up the scene, such as ‘Asset Cleaner’ on ScriptSpot.com.
Disable or extend Auto save
The auto save can be canceled with the Escape key on the Keyboard.
The save frequency can be extended or disabled in the options.
Customize > Preferences > Files Tab > Auto backup section.
Image: Autosave in progress.
Image: Auto backup preferences in the Options.
Source: Autodesk