File extension .IFC
The IFC file extension is a file format developed and managed by the BuildingSMART international organization. It is used for the definition of the physical model of a building, which is comprised of digital data that describes the geometry, material characteristics and other information related to the construction plans and design. It is used widely in the architecture, engineering and construction industry, and is an open format supported by a wide variety of BIM (Building Information Modeling) applications.
Technical Details
The IFC files are categorized as MIME type application octet-stream, usually stored in a folder on a server. The software that creates them can be one of many supported commercial and open source CAD, BIM or analysis software applications. They can be either binary or text based depending on the software which creates them. The files contain a set of individual data objects such as walls, slabs, 3D objects etc., each object having unique identifiers that describe its properties.
The format consists of complex hierarchical schema, so it's not easily readable by a human user. Other commonly used similar file formats include IFX, .BIM, .DWG, .DAE, .IMX,.GML, and .DSX.
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 .IFC) 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 .IFC 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 .IFC 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 .IFC 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 .IFC extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .IFC file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .IFC 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 .IFC file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .IFC file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .IFC 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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