HDF File Extension

What is HDF file?

HDF filename suffix is mostly used for Hierarchical Data Format files. Files with HDF extension may be used by programs distributed for Linux, Mac OS, Windows platform. HDF file format, along with 1326 other file formats, belongs to the Data Files category. Users are advised to use FME Desktop software for managing HDF files, although 10 other programs can also handle this type of file. On the official website of Safe Software Inc. developer not only will you find detailed information about theFME Desktop software, but also about HDF and other supported file formats.

Programs which support HDF file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open HDF files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with HDF suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with HDF extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening HDF files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with HDF 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. Get the FME Desktop

Problems with opening and working with HDF files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with HDF files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install FME Desktop or one to the listed programs: GDAL, HDFView, IGOR Pro. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download FME Desktop installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Safe Software Inc. website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update FME Desktop to the latest version

If you already have FME Desktop installed on your systems and HDF files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why HDF files are not compatible with FME Desktop. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using FME Desktop.

Step 3. Assign FME Desktop to HDF files

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

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the HDF 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 FME Desktop is installed, check the Always use this app to open HDF files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected HDF 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 HDF extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the HDF for errors

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

1. Check the HDF file for viruses or malware

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

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

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

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 FME Desktop

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support HDF files. Close all running programs and try opening the HDF 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 Hierarchical Data Format file. It may be the case that the HDF files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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