BCL File Extension

What is BCL file?

BCL is a file extension commonly associated with Illumina Base Call Format files. Illumina Base Call Format format was developed by Illumina. Files with BCL extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. BCL file belongs to the Data Files category just like 1326 other filename extensions listed in our database. CASAVA supports BCL files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 1 other tools may also be used. Software named CASAVA was created by Illumina, Inc.. In order to find more detailed information on the software and BCL files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support BCL file extension

Programs that can handle BCL files are as follows. BCL 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 BCL extension?

Being unable to open files with BCL extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Illumina Base Call Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with BCL files.

Step 1. Install CASAVA software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening BCL files is that no program that can handle BCL files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install CASAVA or one to the listed programs: BCL Converter. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support BCL files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading CASAVA installed is by going to developer’s website (Illumina, Inc.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of CASAVA and update if needed

If the problems with opening BCL files still occur even after installing CASAVA, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software.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

Step 3. Associate Illumina Base Call Format files with CASAVA

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate BCL files with latest version of CASAVA you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the BCL with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where CASAVA is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open BCL files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with BCL extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with BCL extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the BCL for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the BCL file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the BCL file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the BCL file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the BCL file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the BCL file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the BCL file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. 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. When downloading the file with BCL 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.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle CASAVA

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support BCL files. Close all running programs and try opening the BCL file.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Illumina Base Call Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle BCL files.

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