3D2 File Extension

What is 3D2 file?

3D2 is a 3D image file format used by Atari Stereo CAD-3D, a software tool for Atari ST. The files can contain up to 40 3D objects. Besides actual object data, the file stores also additionl information about them, such as colors and lighting settings.

Changes added to the newest version

3D2 format is similar to the older version; however, it is not based on Motorola Fast Floating Point library (LIBF) used for storing object’s vertex coordinate data. Each coordinate is stored as 2-byte word, not as a 4-byte floating point format, therefore keeping the file size small.

3D2 file structure

3D2 file is divided into two separate parts. First part stores 256-byte header that holds information about lightinig settings, color palette, and the number of object in the file. Second part stores data structure that defines the 3D object stored in the file.

Programs which support 3D2 file extension

Programs that can handle 3D2 files are as follows. Files with 3D2 extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 01/22/2020

How to open file with 3D2 extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening 3D2 files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with 3D2 files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with 3D2 files.

Step 1. Install quick3D software

Problems with opening and working with 3D2 files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with 3D2 files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select quick3D or one of the recommended programs (for example, 3D Object Converter) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading quick3D installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of quick3D

If the problems with opening 3D2 files still occur even after installing quick3D, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of quick3D is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that quick3D cannot handle files with 3D2 may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of quick3D should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open 3D2 files to quick3D

After installing quick3D (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open 3D2 files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the 3D2 file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the quick3D installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open 3D2 files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected 3D2 file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select quick3D and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with 3D2 extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the 3D2 file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the 3D2 file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The 3D2 may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the 3D2 is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the 3D2 file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the 3D2 file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the 3D2 file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic 3D2 file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with 3D2 extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Stereo CAD-3D 2.0 Image Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run quick3D

If the systems has insufficient resources to open 3D2 files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Stereo CAD-3D 2.0 Image Format files. It may be the case that the 3D2 files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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