MTL File Extension

What is MTL file?

MTL is a material configuration file used by 3D modeling applications. MTL file stores information regarding texture patterns for given object, bitmap texture data, and texture positioning information.

Additional information

MTL files are used by 3D modeling tools for storing material settings. MTL files store data in plain text format. However, manually editing the files is discouraged as it poses danger to the data data integrity and may affect the project development.

Programs which support MTL file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open MTL files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. MTL files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 05/22/2023

How to open file with MTL extension?

Being unable to open files with MTL extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with MTL files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Adobe Photoshop software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening MTL files is that no program that can handle MTL files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Adobe Photoshop or one of the recommended programs (for example, TurboCAD, MeshLab) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support MTL files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Adobe Photoshop website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Adobe Photoshop and update if needed

If the problems with opening MTL files still occur even after installing Adobe Photoshop, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Adobe Photoshop is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of Adobe Photoshop installed, it may not support MTL format. The most recent version of Adobe Photoshop is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate OBJ Material Format files with Adobe Photoshop

If you have the latest version of Adobe Photoshop installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage MTL 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.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the MTL with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Adobe Photoshop is installed, check the Always use this app to open MTL files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the MTL file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Adobe Photoshop and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with MTL extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the MTL for 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 MTL file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. The MTL may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the MTL is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. MTL file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If you obtained the problematic MTL 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. It could happen the the download process of file with MTL extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the OBJ Material Format file again.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Adobe Photoshop

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

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with OBJ Material Format files. It may be the case that the MTL files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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