CDA File Extension

What is CDA file?

File with CDA extesion is a shortcut file for audio CD tracks. CDA don’t contain actual audio data but an index of audio CD tracks.

Automatic generation of CDA files

CDA files are typicaly small in size (44 bytes) and are generated automatically by the operating system for each track on given audio CD during playback.

Audio CD in optical drive

CDA shortcut plays given CD track when selected. Therefore, the CD must be placed in the CD-ROM drive beforehand or the file won’t work as intended.

Filenames of CDA files

CDA files use naming convention based on the following pattern: track ##.cda , where ## is the number of given track.

Programs which support CDA file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with CDA files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with CDA 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: 02/19/2020

How to open file with CDA extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening CDA files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to CD Audio Track files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install iTunes

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports CDA files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing iTunes or different compatible program, such as Winamp, RealPlayer, Windows Media Player. 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 iTunes installed is by going to developer’s website (Apple, Inc.) and downloading the software using provided links.

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

If the problems with opening CDA files still occur even after installing iTunes, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of iTunes is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why CDA files are not compatible with iTunes. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using iTunes.

Step 3. Set the default application to open CDA files to iTunes

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

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the CDA 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 iTunes installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open CDA files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the CDA file and 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 CDA extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the CDA for errors

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

1. The CDA 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 CDA file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. CDA file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

Did you receive the CDA file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with CDA extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

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 CD Audio Track file.

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

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with CDA 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 CD Audio Track files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with CDA files affecting older versions of given software.

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