File extension .FCD
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual CD Backup Image Format | N/A | Disk Image Files |
FCD ( .fcd) is a file format developed by FarStone Technology initially released in 1998. It is a virtual CD-ROM file, which contains ISO 9660 image of a CD. FCD files are similar to the traditional ISO and BIN disk image formats, however by using a more efficient proprietary FarStone compression format, the FCD format allows for much larger image files to be stored on the hard drive or optical disc. The FCD file is typically used to replicate the contents of an entire CD onto a single file on a hard drive or optical disc, which makes it much easier to distribute and store large amounts of data.
FCD files often have an .fcd extension and may be opened with many different software programs, such as FarCry Studio, Gamemaster II Virtual CD/DVD-ROM Manager, CyberLink Power2Go and Nero Express Essentials. Similar file formats are CUE/BIN, ISO, NRG, IMG, DMG and MDF image files.
Characteristics of FCD Files
FCD files are primarily used to store data ripped from a CD-ROM in a single compressed file. Normally, burning of CD-ROMs uses large physical discs with data distributed across several tracks and sectors; when a system reads those discs it will extract only the required data from each sector. By contrast an FCD file stores all of this required data in one compressed file. This allows for faster reading and improved cross platform compatibility.
Compressed Data Format
The FCD format compresses files using a combination of lossless algorithms such as LZMA, ALZip and BZIP2 as well as lossy AAC audio compression algorithms. This allows for smaller file sizes while maintaining better performance. The compression algorithm used will depend on the type of data being compressed - audio files would use an AAC based compression algorithm while loose files would use ALZip or Bzip2. Additionally, all the various components that make up the FCD disk image are fully encrypted allowing for an extra layer of copy protection.
Programs for WINDOWS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .FCD) 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 .FCD 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 .FCD 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 .FCD 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 .FCD extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .FCD file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .FCD 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 .FCD file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .FCD file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .FCD 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.
Do you have suggestions for this website?
contact @ fileextension.info Use the Contact Form