File extension .DMS
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Disk Masher Image | N/A | Disk Image Files |
The Disk Masher Image ( .DMS) file format is a disk image storage format developed by Commodore for various versions of the Amiga computer systems. The format was designed to store a logical disk image in a file and replicate most of the functionality of an original physical floppy disk. Created in 1987, it has become a de facto disk image file standard, and is most commonly used for storing archives of software applications and games originally distributed on physical media like floppy disks on modern computers.
A single.DMS file contains the entire contents (including folders, files, and metadata) of an original diskette or other physical media copy in an exact copy compressed into several smaller units. Each unit contains one track with numerous sectors stored in a sector-by-sector fashion. This includes physical characteristics such as the track numbers, sector numbers, sector layout, etc. The nature of the format and its ability to retain all data makes it an excellent choice for archiving disk images for emulators and other software programs.
Detailed Specifications
The DMS file is an Executable Data Block or EXE-block that is structured around strong encryption algorithms. It is very similar in structure with the ISO (.iso) image but with the addition of special encryption keys. A standard.DMS consists of several blocks that each contain up to 4 sectors of check data and accompanying control fields. Each check block also includes a version number along with header information about the data contained in that block.
The compression techniques employed in DMS make it ideal for applications requiring large amounts of data to be stored in small spaces. The enormous amounts of free space this can save make it ideal for environments where large volumes of data need to be stored with limited storage capacity, such as game consoles. As a highly recommendable virtualisation file format, it has many similarities with other open formats such as .IMG, .ISO, .FDI, .ST, .MSA, and .HDM.
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 .DMS) 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 .DMS 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 .DMS 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 .DMS 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 .DMS extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .DMS file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .DMS 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 .DMS file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .DMS file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .DMS 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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