BDF File Extension

What is BDF file?

BDF is a file extension commonly associated with Glyph Bitmap Distribution Format files. Adobe Systems defined the Glyph Bitmap Distribution Format format standard. BDF files are supported by software applications available for devices running Linux, Mac OS, Windows. BDF file format, along with 109 other file formats, belongs to the Font Files category. FontForge supports BDF files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 3 other tools may also be used. Software named FontForge was created by George Williams. In order to find more detailed information on the software and BDF files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support BDF file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with BDF files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with BDF 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.

How to open file with BDF extension?

Being unable to open files with BDF extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with BDF 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 FontForge software

Problems with opening and working with BDF files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with BDF files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select FontForge or one of the recommended programs (for example, FONmaker) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support BDF files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download FontForge installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit George Williams website and download from their official repositories.

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

If the problems with opening BDF files still occur even after installing FontForge, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of FontForge is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of FontForge installed, it may not support BDF format. The latest version of FontForge should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Glyph Bitmap Distribution Format files with FontForge

If you have the latest version of FontForge installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage BDF on your device. 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 BDF 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 FontForge installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open BDF files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with BDF extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with BDF extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the BDF for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the BDF file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the BDF file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the BDF file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with BDF extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the BDF 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 BDF 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 out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Glyph Bitmap Distribution Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open FontForge

If the systems has insufficient resources to open BDF 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 Glyph Bitmap Distribution Format files. It may be the case that the BDF files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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