REC File Extension

What is REC file?

REC file extension is native to Topfield PVR digital video recorder, and is created by this type of device by default. The format was designed specfically to store video data captured with the above-mentioned type of recording device.

REC format characteristics

Although REC is a proprietary format, the file can be viewed using players or software other than that offered by Topfield. Video data stored in REC format is compressed to save storage space of recording device and thus provide space for more video files. REC files are sometimes refer r ed to as Toppy files, since Toppy is short for Topfield.

Programs which support REC file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with REC files, divided into 5 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with REC 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: 06/13/2023

How to open file with REC extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening REC files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Topfield PVR Recording files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install VLC media player

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening REC files is that no program that can handle REC files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select VLC media player or one of the recommended programs (for example, MPEG Player, VideoReDo, Nero ShowTime) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download VLC media player installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit VideoLAN Project Team website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Check the version of VLC media player and update if needed

If you already have VLC media player installed on your systems and REC 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. The reason that VLC media player cannot handle files with REC may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using VLC media player.

Step 3. Set the default application to open REC files to VLC media player

If you have the latest version of VLC media player installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage REC 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

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the REC file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where VLC media player is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open REC files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with REC extension, 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....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with REC extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

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

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the REC file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the REC file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the REC is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. REC file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If you obtained the problematic REC 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. When downloading the file with REC extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Topfield PVR Recording file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle VLC media player

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

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Topfield PVR Recording files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the REC files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the REC file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on REC file.