SEGY File Extension

What is SEGY file?

SEGY is a file extension commonly associated with SEG-Y Geophysical Data files. SEGY file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Windows system platform. SEGY file belongs to the Graphic Files category just like 524 other filename extensions listed in our database. The software recommended for managing SEGY files is Petrel. On the official website of Schlumberger Limited developer not only will you find detailed information about thePetrel software, but also about SEGY and other supported file formats.

Programs which support SEGY file extension

The following listing features SEGY-compatible programs. SEGY files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

How to open file with SEGY extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening SEGY files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with SEGY extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Petrel software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports SEGY files installed on the system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install Petrel. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Petrel installed is by going to developer’s website (Schlumberger Limited) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Petrel to the latest version

If the problems with opening SEGY files still occur even after installing Petrel, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Petrel is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why SEGY files are not compatible with Petrel. The most recent version of Petrel is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Petrel to SEGY files

After installing Petrel (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open SEGY files. 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

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the SEGY file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Petrel installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open SEGY files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected SEGY file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Petrel and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with SEGY extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the SEGY is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the SEGY file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the SEGY file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the SEGY 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. SEGY file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the SEGY file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic SEGY file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with SEGY extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the SEG-Y Geophysical Data file again.

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

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

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 SEG-Y Geophysical Data files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with SEGY files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

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