3DS File Extension

What is 3DS file?

3DS is a file format used Autodesk 3D Studio computer software. 3DS files store various information regarding 3D scene, including coordinates, mesh data, polygon data used for object creation, attributes, color information, material data, lighting information, bitmap references, animations, and camera locations.

3DS file structure

3DS data is stored in binary format to reduce loading times and file size in comparison with standard text format files of similar type. 3DS file structure in made of data blocks, called ‘chunks’, that contain ID and data size information. First two bits of a ’chunk’ hold ID informations, while the next four bits hold information about size of the file. ‘Chunks’ also store information about viewing, shapes, and lightning that together represent a 3D scene.

3DS format successor

Although 3DS has a successor, the MAX format, which had its debut in newer versions of 3ds Max software, it is still widely used on large scale.

Programs which support 3DS file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open 3DS files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with 3DS 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: 06/27/2023

How to open file with 3DS extension?

Problems with accessing 3DS may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with 3DS extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install 3ds Max software

Problems with opening and working with 3DS files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with 3DS files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install 3ds Max or one to the listed programs: TurboCAD, SketchUp, MeshLab. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit 3ds Max website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of 3ds Max

If the problems with opening 3DS files still occur even after installing 3ds Max, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of 3ds Max is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that 3ds Max cannot handle files with 3DS may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using 3ds Max.

Step 3. Associate 3D Studio Scene files with 3ds Max

If you have the latest version of 3ds Max installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage 3DS on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the 3DS file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where 3ds Max is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open 3DS files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected 3DS file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with 3DS extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the 3DS for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper 3DS file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Verify that the 3DS in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the 3DS is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. 3DS file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If the 3DS file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. If the 3DS file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the 3D Studio Scene file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run 3ds Max

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with 3DS extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with 3D Studio Scene files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with 3DS files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the 3DS file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on 3DS file.