File extension .PNM
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Portable Anymap Bitmap Graphic Format | N/A | Raster Image Files |
The .PNM file extension is used to store Portable Any Map image files. This type of graphic format is a convenient way to save, share, and transfer bitmap graphics efficiently without needing a specific operating system or image editing program. Developed by Jef Poskanzer at the University of California in the 1980s, it is supported by various Unix, Mac OSX, and Windows operating systems. The PNM format can store both 1-bit black and white images as well as 24-bit color images. It supports up to 24-bit color depth, which results in much improved clarity compared to less robust formats such as the .BMP, .GIF and .JPG image formats.
Technical Details
At its core, the PNM format uses a plain text file to store a matrix of numerical values for the displayed image. This text file is known as the "Portable Pixmap" or PPM file. Technically speaking, this type of image is known as a "Bitmap Image", also referred to as a "Raster Graphic". This is due to the way that each one pixel can be saved as a single dot or node in a coordinate system. The advantage of this type of data representation is that different sized images remain crisp and sharp with minimal distortions.
Similar File Types
Similar types of raster graphic files include the .PCX, .TIFF, .PCT, and .PNG file extensions.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for MAC system
Programs for LINUX system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .PNM) 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 .PNM 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 .PNM 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 .PNM 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 .PNM extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .PNM file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .PNM 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 .PNM file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .PNM file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .PNM 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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