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Troubleshooting

In this troubleshooting guide, we address common issues that users may encounter when working with Joomla and the 3D Viewer Field in conjunction with Google's Model-Viewer. From 3D model display problems to performance issues and discrepancies with the rendering engine, we provide solutions to help you overcome these challenges and make the most of your 3D content integration. By following the solutions outlined below, you can ensure a smoother experience while working with 3D models on your Joomla website.

The 3D Viewer extension update doesn't appear in Joomla.​

Solution:

  • Refresh Update Sites: Sometimes, updates may not show up due to outdated or incomplete update site data. To address this, follow these steps:

    • Log in to your Joomla administration panel.
    • Navigate to the System menu, and look for Update.
    • Click on Update Sites.
    • Click the Rebuild button to ensure your update sites are up to date.

  • Contact Support: If the update still doesn't appear, and you've tried the steps above, it's advisable to contact our support team for further assistance. Visit our Support Page, submit a support request, and provide details about the update issue you're facing. Our support team will review your request and provide guidance to resolve the problem.

The 3D model and or buttons are not displaying on the site​

Solution:

  • Check 3D Model Format: Ensure that you've uploaded a 3D model in a supported format. Google's Model-Viewer primarily supports GLB and GLTF files. If you're using a different format, consider converting your model to GLB or GLTF.

  • Model Rendering Issues: Verify that the uploaded 3D model is correctly configured. Check for issues with textures, animations, or other model-specific settings that may affect rendering.

  • Field Configuration: In the Joomla administration panel, review the configuration settings for the 3D Viewer field. Ensure that the options are correctly set. Pay special attention to the "Allow Download" and "User Groups" settings if you want users to download the 3D model.

  • File Upload Issues: Ensure that you've correctly configured Joomla's Media Manager. This step is important to allow the upload of the various files needed for the plugin to work. Please refer to the Preparing the Joomla Media Manager section for more information.

  • Access Control: Check user group permissions. If the 3D model download isn't working for specific users or user groups, review the access control settings to ensure they have permission to download.

  • Model-Viewer Compatibility: Update or reinstall the plugin to ensure you have the latest version that works seamlessly with Joomla.

Slow Loading or Performance Issues​

Solution:

  • Image/Poster Optimization: Use a well-optimized image or poster in the Model-Viewer. A high-resolution or large image might slow down the loading speed. Consider using compressed images for faster loading times.

  • 3D Model Complexity: High-polygon 3D models can impact loading times. Simplify the models if possible, or choose more efficient formats such as GLB. Also, consider reducing the number of models displayed on a single page.

  • Hosting Environment: Ensure that your hosting environment can handle the 3D rendering. Check server resources like CPU, memory, and GPU capabilities to guarantee smooth performance.

  • Caching: Joomla offers caching options. Enable caching to reduce page loading times. If you're using a Joomla extension for caching, make sure it's correctly configured.

3D Model Display Issues on Mobile Devices​

Solution:

  • Browser Compatibility: Ensure that the mobile browsers you're targeting support Google's Model-Viewer. Check the compatibility list provided by Google to confirm that the feature is supported.

  • Responsive Design: Verify that your Joomla template is mobile-responsive. The 3D model might not display correctly if the template isn't optimized for mobile devices.

  • Browser Extensions: Certain browser extensions or ad-blockers can interfere with the rendering of 3D models. Ask users to disable such extensions when viewing 3D content.

The Model Editor Is Not Working​

Solution:

  • JavaScript and Browser Compatibility: The Model Editor relies on JavaScript. Ensure that JavaScript is enabled in your browser. Also, check if you're using a browser that's compatible with the Model-Viewer and Joomla's admin panel.

  • Editor Configuration: Review your editor configuration settings. Check if any field entries are incomplete or contain invalid characters.

  • Internet Connection: Slow or unstable internet connections can affect the Model Editor's functionality. Ensure you have a stable internet connection when using the editor.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve common issues when using Joomla and Google's Model-Viewer with the 3D Viewer Field. For more complex or specific issues, please reach out to our support.