File extension .CGM
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Graphics Metafile | N/A | Vector Image Files |
CGM ( .cgm) stands for Computer Graphics Metafile. It is a vector graphics file format most commonly used for storing 2D and 3D vector graphics. CGM files are widely used in scientific, engineering and technical applications and are an open standard developed by the International Standards Organisation (ISO). The CGM format is supported by a range of vector editing software, such as CorelDraw, Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape, SketchUp and AutoCAD.
CGM File Structure
CGM files usually contain a structured stream of commands encoded either in binary or ASCII. These commands are paired with data parameters capable of describing lines, circles, arrows, text, image rectangles, images and colours. Commonly used command parameters include drawing elements like line width, end-point, dash-pattern, angle, arc centre-point; text elements such as writing font and character size; graphical elements such as bitmap display; and colour elements such as mix method and primary color. The latest version of CGM supports several different encoding methods for representing Metafile Data including clear text and binary encodings.
How to Open a CGM File
To open a CGM file you should use the software package associated with it – such as CorelDraw or Adobe Illustrator. Certain web browsers like Chrome and Firefox can open some versions of CGM files though exact compatibility depends on your browser version. If you cannot open your file using any of these programs then online file converters can be used to convert .cgm to other formats like .svg, .wmf, .png, .jpg, or .bmp.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for MAC system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .CGM) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .CGM extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .CGM file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .CGM extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .CGM extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .CGM file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .CGM file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .CGM file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .CGM file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .CGM file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines
Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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