direct 3d with char's

i have been studing how to make a height map in 3d max studio, and just recently found examples of how to make a heght map in direct 3d. does anyone have any more examples of direct 3d heightmaps, and also how to put characters on a heightmap.

also the examples that i was able to find in direct3d only supported 180 x 180 pixel heightmaps. is this a limitation of direct 3d or a limitation of the programmers skills?

a little further down the list is a question i had about direct 3d height maps. why wont anyone post on it? it is a question that i would like some help on. Please read it and help me out.
thank you in advance
clint
clint_brasch@hotmail.com