File extension .HEX
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Hex Dump Format | N/A | Misc Files |
The .HEX file format is a computer readable format which stores information in the form of hexadecimal (base 16) data. It is a sub-format of the semiconductor industry standard Intel Hex Format and is used for storing and transferring data in the binary format. It can store data such as instructions, opcodes, lookup tables, and memory contents.
The content within a .HEX file is composed of ASCII text and is commonly written using a text editor. The lines of text within the file are organized into one of three record types. These records correspond to “data records” which contain raw data instructions; “end-of-file records” which signify that the end of the file has been reached; and “extended-segment-address records” to define segments greater than 64K. For optimizing use, it is also possible to compress the Intel HEX files utilized by an embedded system.
Usage
The .HEX file extension is primarily used for programming microcontrollers such as those made by Microchip technologies, but are also used for some Atmel processors, 8051 micro*controllers and other devices used for controlling applications. They are are utilized by companies designing for embedded systems technology and in many software development kits, such as the Keil® uVision® IDE, Atmel® Studio7 IDE or the popular Arduino IDE. Many other similar file extensions are used in micro controllers such as .A51, .COD, .CMP, etc.
Importance
The importance of this file format resides in its ability to transfer data quickly and reliably between software programs and hardware devices. This allows customers to program their own microcontrollers with custom instructions or read the existing information from them using appropriate software tools. Without a correctly formatted .HEX file even an experienced application developer can not perform effective analysis on its firmware.
Further information on the HEX file extension can be found at https://fileinfo.com/extension/hex.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for LINUX system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .HEX) 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 .HEX 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 .HEX 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 .HEX 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 .HEX extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .HEX file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .HEX 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 .HEX file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .HEX file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .HEX 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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