EMF File Extension

What is EMF file?

EMF is a vector graphics file format used by Windows operating system, and was developed by Microsoft in 1993. EMF files can also be used to store bitmap and text data.

EMF format applications

EMF files are used by Windows as buffer data for printing. Buffering creates a temporary EMF file that is removed once the printing has been completed.

Advantages of EMF files

EMF file format is device-independent and retains DPI of stored image. Thus, the file can be used on any device, such as printer, plotter, etc.

EMF is a successor to WMF format. The newer version supports 32-bit data, while WMF only supported 16-bit data. EMF format also has the advantage of wider color space (RGB and CMYK), support for high-resolution graphics, and smaller file size. EMF file is a reasonable alternative to RAW file.

Programs which support EMF file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 4 operating systems that support EMF files. Files with EMF 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: 01/16/2020

How to open file with EMF extension?

Problems with accessing EMF may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with EMF files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Office software

Problems with opening and working with EMF files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with EMF files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Office or one to the listed programs: Adobe Illustrator, PaintShop Pro, Converter Pro. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support EMF files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download Microsoft Office installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft Office and update if needed

You still cannot access EMF files although Microsoft Office is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. 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 Microsoft Office installed, it may not support EMF format. The most recent version of Microsoft Office is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Enhanced Windows Metafile files with Microsoft Office

After installing Microsoft Office (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open EMF files. 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 EMF 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 Microsoft Office installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open EMF files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the EMF file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Microsoft Office and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with EMF extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the EMF file is complete and free of errors

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

1. Verify that the EMF in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the EMF is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the EMF file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If you obtained the problematic EMF file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. 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 EMF 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

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Enhanced Windows Metafile file again.

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

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

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Enhanced Windows Metafile file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with EMF files affecting older versions of given software.

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