File extension .MAP
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Geographical Map Format | Pierre-Emmanuel Gougelet | Data Files |
A MAP file is a data file that contains geographic information about a particular area or region. It is often used for creating digital maps, including those used in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software. MAP files are most commonly associated with ESRI ArcGIS and ER Mapper, but can also be used by other mapping programs.
MAP files typically end with the .MAP file extension, however some may use the alternate file extensions of .EML, .E00, and .ECW. These files contain coordinate and elevation information that allows a GIS program to render a two-dimensional map of the area from three-dimensional data. They may also contain other forms of geographical information such as roads, rivers, terrain, or political country boundaries. MAP files include binary data encoded in either ASCII text or EBCDIC.
Storing MAP Files
MAP files are generally stored in a tile pyramid structure allowing quick access to different levels of detail during map rendering. This allows users to adjust the level of detail shown on the map dependent on factors such as zoom level and type of terrain being viewed. The tiled structure is what enables GIS programs to render complex geographical data quickly. For example, if someone zooms in on an area on a digital map that includes multiple layers such as roads and rivers, only the tiles associated with that particular view would need to be loaded into memory, rather than the entire map.
Similar File Extensions
MAP files are related to other GIS file formats such as .SHP, .KML, .GPX, .DWG, and NMEA. These other file extensions are used for various types of geographical information and all work similarly to MAP files.
Programs for WINDOWS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .MAP) 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 .MAP 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 .MAP 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 .MAP 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 .MAP extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .MAP file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .MAP 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 .MAP file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .MAP file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .MAP 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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