quadrateFX generates random vector tiled rectangles in After Effects, simulating treemap visualisation, with a custom‑layer source option and 3D quad support. Version 1.51 adds localisation fixes and Advanced 3D renderer compatibility.
Developed by Real Creations.
About quadrateFX
quadrateFX is an After Effects plugin that creates random patterns of vector tiled rectangles, reproducing the treemap data‑visualisation technique. It outputs vector quads and can generate 3D quads or a solid layer. A custom‑layer mode lets you split quads using X/Y grid, sampling radius, split randomness, exaggerate and luminance settings, sampling either luminance or RGB values from the chosen layer. The plugin supports After Effects CC 2014 through the 2024 release. Version 1.51 (released 2025‑11‑20) fixed localisation in SampledQuads mode, resolved a 3D quad creation issue with the Advanced 3D renderer, and updated the licence framework. A demo video is provided by the developer.
Features
- Generates random patterns of vector tiled rectangles, simulating the treemapping data visualization method
- Custom layer as a source for splitting the quads, with X+Y grid, sampling radius, split randomness, exaggerate and luminance settings
- Sampling of either luminance values or RGB color values from the chosen layer
- Creates 3D quads
- Option to generate a solid layer
- Runs on After Effects versions from CC 2014 through 2024
Best for
After Effects artists who need treemap‑style tiled rectangle layouts, especially when driving the pattern from a custom source layer or requiring 3D output.
Frequently asked questions
Which After Effects versions work with quadrateFX?
quadrateFX works with After Effects releases from CC 2014 through CC 2015, CC 2015.3, CC 2017, CC 2018, CC 2019, and the 2020‑2024 versions. Support for CS6 and earlier CC versions was removed in version 1.50.
Is quadrateFX free to use?
The catalog lists quadrateFX as free, meaning it can be added without a purchase through the catalogue. Licensing terms may change, so consult the developer’s page for current activation details.
Can quadrateFX use a custom layer as its source?
Yes, quadrateFX can use a custom layer as the source for splitting quads. This mode provides X/Y grid control, sampling radius, split randomness, exaggerate and luminance settings, and can sample either luminance or RGB values.
Does quadrateFX work with the Advanced 3D renderer?
quadrateFX creates 3D quads, and version 1.51 fixed an issue that prevented their creation when the Advanced 3D renderer was selected in recent After Effects builds.
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