PFA File Extension

What is PFA file?

Files with the extension PFA belong to the category of font files.

What do PFA files contain?

Files with the PFA extension contain Adobe Type 1 fonts. They are part of the PostScript character category, which has been developed since 1982. PFA files store fonts in ASCII format. This is why files with the PFA extension can be opened using even the simplest text editors like Notepad.

What are PFA files used for?

In addition to displaying text on a computer monitor, fonts from PFA files are used, for example, when printing content with a printer connected to a computer. In this process, text, written using fonts from PFA files, is sent to the printing device. To correctly use characters stored in files with the PFA extension, they are usually placed in dedicated system directories, such as one named Fonts.

Programs which support PFA file extension

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

Updated: 03/18/2024

How to open file with PFA extension?

Problems with accessing PFA may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with PFA 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. Download and install FontForge

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports PFA files installed on the system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install FontForge. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading FontForge installed is by going to developer’s website (George Williams) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update FontForge to the latest version

You still cannot access PFA files although FontForge 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 PFA files are not compatible with FontForge. The most recent version of FontForge is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Printer Font ASCII Format files with FontForge

After installing FontForge (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PFA files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the PFA file
• 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 FontForge is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open PFA files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the PFA file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with PFA extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the PFA for errors

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

1. Verify that the PFA in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PFA file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. PFA file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic PFA file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with PFA 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 FontForge

If the systems has insufficient resources to open PFA 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 Printer Font ASCII Format files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with PFA files affecting older versions of given software.

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