POD File Extension

What is POD file?

File with POD extension is a documentation file for Perl programming language. POD files use a special markup syntax for better readability and functionality. The syntax is very basic and highly standardize – there is no option to change font size or color, add images, or tables. This allows POD files to be easily converted to other formats (XML, TeX, Markdown, HTML). POD files can be opened with perldoc tool.

What are POD files used for?

Plain Old Documentation is a very convenient markup language suitable for creating clear and succinct software documentation files. Most documentation for Perl and Parrot virtual machine is written in this language.

Other uses of POD language

Besides documenting source code written in Perl, POD is also used for generating script description (for example, bash scripts). POD documents can then be easily converted into system help manuals (manpages).

Programs which support POD file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support POD files. Files with POD 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: 09/01/2022

How to open file with POD extension?

Being unable to open files with POD extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with POD extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install Adobe ExtendScript

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening POD files is that no program that can handle POD files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Adobe ExtendScript or different compatible program, such as Windows Notepad, NotePad++ text editor, Perl Code Editor. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support POD files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Adobe ExtendScript installed is by going to developer’s website (Adobe Systems Incorporated) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Adobe ExtendScript

If the problems with opening POD files still occur even after installing Adobe ExtendScript, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Adobe ExtendScript is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that Adobe ExtendScript cannot handle files with POD may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Adobe ExtendScript should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open POD files to Adobe ExtendScript

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate POD files with latest version of Adobe ExtendScript you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the POD with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Adobe ExtendScript installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open POD files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the POD file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select Adobe ExtendScript and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with POD extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

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

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the POD file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

If the POD 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. If the scanner detected that the POD 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 POD 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 POD 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 Perl POD Format file again.

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

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

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 Perl POD Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle POD files.

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