E57 File Extension

What is E57 file?

Files with .E57 extension are used to 3D images generated by 3D software. ASTM E57 is based on XML format and binary data structures. Binary data is compressed to save disk space. E57 are files are used LiDAR - light detection and ranging data in portable format containing Point Cloud data.

Contents of E57 files

E57 files can store such objects as:

• point clouds (3D cloud points),
• color and intensity information as point attributes,
• 2D images,
• metadata (file-related information).

E57 files store data using a well-defined structure with a header and binary data section followed by XML data entries.

Usage of .E57 files

E57 format is support by select 3D cameras and recording devices. Captured images can be then edited using professional software tools for 3D image editing. E57 files can store images of:

• building and architectural elements,
• geologic surfaces,
• atmospheric objects.

ASTM E57 files are used in many research fields, engineering, construction industry, or geodesy. The format was designed for storing and exchanging 3D cloud point data.

Programs which support E57 file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support E57 files. Files with E57 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: 04/22/2023

How to open file with E57 extension?

Being unable to open files with E57 extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to LIDAR Point Cloud Data 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 E57 files.

Step 1. Install LD3 Studio software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening E57 files is that no program that can handle E57 files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select LD3 Studio or one of the recommended programs (for example, Real Works, Pointools Suite, Faro Scene) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading LD3 Studio installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update LD3 Studio to the latest version

If you already have LD3 Studio installed on your systems and E57 files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. 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 E57 files are not compatible with LD3 Studio. The latest version of LD3 Studio should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign LD3 Studio to E57 files

After installing LD3 Studio (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open E57 files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the E57 with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where LD3 Studio is installed, check the Always use this app to open E57 files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected E57 file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select LD3 Studio and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with E57 extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the E57 is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the E57 file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The E57 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 E57 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 E57 file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with E57 extension is complete and error-free

If the E57 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. It could happen the the download process of file with E57 extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open LD3 Studio

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support E57 files. Close all running programs and try opening the E57 file.

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with LIDAR Point Cloud Data Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle E57 files.

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