EPF File Extension

What is EPF file?

Files with .EPF extension store embedded PostScript images in a custom format that extends PostScript. EPF is less common the the default .EPS format. Images stored in EPF files can be easily incorporated into other documents; EPF files can also store thumbnails image. EPF is an image file that can be both a graphic file and EPS document.

Encapsulated Postscript image file structure

EPF files store vector graphic images or bitmaps, as well as structures called pragmas, which are special DSC PostScript comments; pragmas are ignored during processing. Pragmas are declared %% characters. EPF files use pragmas to describe properties of images they contain, including:

• EPSF standard version – the header starts with %!
• Size of the image box – required parameter, declared with %%BoundingBox
• Optional information, such as author, creation data, or title
• Image preview
• Extensions for printing, for example, CMYK

EPF files may also contain low resolution PICT (macOS) or TIFF (Windows) images as thumbnails. EPF can be a binary or ASCII text file.

Usage of EPF files

EPF files are used for embedding graphical elements in PS documents, and until for a long time it was the only such format supported by PostScript. Many applications, such Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, allow users to export images to EPF files. EPF is also the default printing file format for many different programs or drivers. EPSI, an extension to EPF format, offers an additional option to preview the stored image. EPF files are not supported by applications included with Microsoft Office suite as they can be easily used to inject malicious software and damage the system as a result.

Programs which support EPF file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support EPF files. Files with EPF suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 04/08/2022

How to open file with EPF extension?

Problems with accessing EPF may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with EPF extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Adobe Illustrator software

Problems with opening and working with EPF files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with EPF files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Adobe Illustrator or one to the listed programs: Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Creative Suite. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Adobe Illustrator website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Adobe Illustrator

If you already have Adobe Illustrator installed on your systems and EPF 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 EPF files are not compatible with Adobe Illustrator. The latest version of Adobe Illustrator should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate EPSF Encapsulated Postscript Image Format files with Adobe Illustrator

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate EPF files with latest version of Adobe Illustrator you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

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 EPF file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Adobe Illustrator installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open EPF files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected EPF file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with EPF extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the EPF for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the EPF file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

If the EPF 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 EPF file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic EPF file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with EPF extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. 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 Adobe Illustrator

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support EPF files. Close all running programs and try opening the EPF 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 EPSF Encapsulated Postscript Image Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle EPF files.

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