File extension .CHM
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Compiled HTML Help Format | Microsoft | Web Files |
The CHM ( .CHM) file extension is a Compiled HTML Help File used to store information and documentation that is located in HTML or other forms of markup language. The contents stored inside the .CHM files are organized in the same hierarchical fashion as other popular Windows help files, with search capability for simple retrieval. It was developed by Microsoft and released as part of their Windows 98 initiative. The file format provides storage for interactive hypertext links, images, text formatting, and page layout.
Technical Details
The .CHM file encodes all of its information in standard binary files, making it a smaller and portable alternative to most plain-text HTML files which tend to take up more space. The usage of this type of file also makes it easier to navigate the contents, since navigation elements like table of contents, indexing, and search functions are often created automatically when compiling the file. Other features like automatic installation programs including other system files and fonts can also be added. This type of file can be opened using several different programs such as 7-Zip, PeaZip, Keka, Microsoft HTML Help Workshop, FAR Manager, and Microsoft Office Publisher. Similar formats include .HLP, .RTF, WINHELP, and .HHK.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for MAC system
Programs for LINUX system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .CHM) 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 .CHM 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 .CHM 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 .CHM 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 .CHM extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .CHM file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .CHM 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 .CHM file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .CHM file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .CHM 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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