FBX File Extension

What is FBX file?

FBX is an open, platform-independent 3D data file format owned by Autodesk. FBX files are used for storing 2D/3D drawings and preserve fidelity and functionality of the original file.

Features of FBX files

Main goal of FBX format is to provide data compatibility between various applications for creating digital content. FBX files allow users to create and edit digital data using many different 3D editing tools, regardless of system platform.

Short history of FBX format

FBX format was developed by Kaydara. In 2006, Autodesk Inc. bought rights to this format. Kaydara originally used FBX format for files generated with Filmbox software, which the FBX format was named after. FBX format is very popular these days.

Additional information

1. FBX files can be converted from such formats as DXF, DAE (COLLADA), 3DS, or OBJ.
2. FBX files can store data in text (ASCII) or binary format.
3. FBX is a proprietary format.

Programs which support FBX file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open FBX files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. FBX files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 05/14/2022

How to open file with FBX extension?

Problems with accessing FBX may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with FBX extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install 3ds Max

Problems with opening and working with FBX files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with FBX files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select 3ds Max or one of the recommended programs (for example, AutoCAD, QuickTime Player) 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 3ds Max installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update 3ds Max to the latest version

You still cannot access FBX files although 3ds Max 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. This can be one of the causes why FBX files are not compatible with 3ds Max. The most recent version of 3ds Max is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign 3ds Max to FBX files

If you have the latest version of 3ds Max installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage FBX 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.

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the FBX file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where 3ds Max is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open FBX files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected FBX file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with FBX extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

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

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper FBX file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the FBX file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the FBX is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the FBX file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the FBX file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If the FBX file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with FBX 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.

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Autodesk FBX Interchange Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run 3ds Max

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with FBX extension. In this case close the other applications.

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 Autodesk FBX Interchange Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with FBX files affecting older versions of given software.

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