File extension .DTA
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Program Data Format | N/A | Data Files |
The DTA file extension is an acronym for a Data File, and is used by programs such as SPSS, Stata, and other software programs that handle data management and analysis. It typically contains plain text in the form of ASCII text or binary text for storage of numerical data sets. The file is usually used to save datasets collected in statistical experiments in an easily retrievable, organized manner that can be used by any application.
Similar file extensions include DTF, POR, and SAV. These files offer similar features to the DTA file, such as storage of numeric data records in an organized manner for easy retrieval, and are used to save datasets gathered for experiment evaluations. A
DTA File Format
The DTA format consists of a series of records, or rows, which contain data values separated by a delimiter character. Each record forms a line that consists of one or more fields, or columns. The last record typically contains a -1 value to indicate the end of the data; this is known as the trailer record. By default, SPSS uses comma-delimited (CSV) format for the DTA file. However, other delimiters can be used when exporting DTA files from SPSS.
Related File Formats
The DTA file is related to a variety of other formats such as RPT, SYX, and AIA. These files are primarily associated with SPSS and are used for analyzing data sets; however, they may have different features such as support for specialized layouts and other formatting options. Additionally, many software packages support importing and exporting of DTA files such as Microsoft Office Excel.
Programs for WINDOWS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .DTA) 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 .DTA 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 .DTA 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 .DTA 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 .DTA extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .DTA file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .DTA 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 .DTA file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .DTA file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .DTA 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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