PCM File Extension

What is PCM file?

PCM is an audio file format for storing uncompressed audio data. Typical PCM file stores 2-channel audio (Stereo), but the format supports single- and multi-channel audio. PCM files are sometimes, erroneously, saved as WAV or AIF.

PCM (modulation)

Pulse-code modulation (PCM) is the basic form of representing analog signals as digital signals. Input signal is quantized, that is, divided into set of discreet sampling points, and each sample is given a value. Sampling frequency (or rate) determines the number of samples taken in given time interval, while sampling resolution determines the size of the numbers used to write the samples, which in turn determines the audio quality. Sampling rate of 44,1 kHz with 16-bit resolution covers all frequencies in the human hearing range.

Programs which support PCM file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PCM files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with PCM 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: 09/07/2022

How to open file with PCM extension?

Problems with accessing PCM may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with PCM 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. Get the MPlayer

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening PCM files is that no program that can handle PCM files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install MPlayer or one to the listed programs: Adobe Audition, Awave Studio. 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 MPlayer website and download the installer.

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

If the problems with opening PCM files still occur even after installing MPlayer, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of MPlayer is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why PCM files are not compatible with MPlayer. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using MPlayer.

Step 3. Assign MPlayer to PCM files

After installing MPlayer (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PCM files. 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

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the PCM file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the MPlayer installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open PCM files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with PCM extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select MPlayer and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with PCM extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the PCM 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 PCM file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the PCM file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PCM file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the PCM file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the PCM file’s structure is intact

If the PCM 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. When downloading the file with PCM 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

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle MPlayer

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

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Pulse Code Modulation file. It may be the case that the PCM files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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