FA File Extension

What is FA file?

Full format name of files that use FA extension is FASTA Formatted Sequence Format. Files with FA extension may be used by programs distributed for Linux, Mac OS, Windows platform. FA file format, along with 1326 other file formats, belongs to the Data Files category. The most popular program for handling FA files is SnapGene, but users can choose among 4 different programs that support this file format. On the official website of GSL Biotech developer not only will you find detailed information about theSnapGene software, but also about FA and other supported file formats.

Programs which support FA file extension

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

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening FA files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to FASTA Formatted Sequence Format 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. Get the SnapGene

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports FA files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install SnapGene or one to the listed programs: 4Peaks, SeqVerter, EMBOSS abiview. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit SnapGene website and download the installer.

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

If the problems with opening FA files still occur even after installing SnapGene, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of SnapGene 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 SnapGene installed, it may not support FA format. The most recent version of SnapGene is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate FASTA Formatted Sequence Format files with SnapGene

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate FA files with latest version of SnapGene you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the FA file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where SnapGene is installed, check the Always use this app to open FA 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 FA file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select SnapGene and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with FA extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

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

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

1. Check the FA file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the FA is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. FA file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the FA file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with FA extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

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 in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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

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

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with FASTA Formatted Sequence Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the FA files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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