SCM File Extension

What is SCM file?

Files with .SCM extension store screen capture data created with screencast software ScreenCam for Windows systems. SCM is not a typical movie file. SCM files store frames of images intercepted using VPC procedure in Windows 95 saved in a proprietary format. Current versions of ScreenCam use different file formats for storing screen recording formats.

SCM files can only be played using dedicated software tools. ScreenCam was developed in the 1990s and gained a lot of popularity due to its innovative approach to recording screen activity.

ScreenCam can be used for:

• Streaming and broadcasting,
• Creating screen demos,
• Simulating programs and scenarios,
• Creating tutorials,
• Screencasting.

ScreenCam was originally developed by Lotus Corporation, and was later acquired by IBM. ScreenCam offered a simple and intuitive interface similar to popular at that tile VCRs. ScreenCam was still developed and updated, but each new Windows version gradually dropped support for the technology ScreenCam used, also there were some portability issues. IBM discontinued the project and sold ScreenCam trademark to SmartGuyz Incorporated. Current versions of ScreenCam were developed from scratch based on newer technology that uses still images and mouse movement simulation algorithms. ScreenCam supports importing and exporting to popular SWF files.

Programs which support SCM file extension

The following listing features SCM-compatible programs. Files with SCM extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 09/02/2023

How to open file with SCM extension?

Problems with accessing SCM may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to ScreenCam Screen 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 ScreenCam

Problems with opening and working with SCM files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with SCM files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install ScreenCam or one to the listed programs: PowerPoint. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading ScreenCam installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

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

You still cannot access SCM files although ScreenCam is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of ScreenCam installed, it may not support SCM format. The most recent version of ScreenCam is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate ScreenCam Screen Recording files with ScreenCam

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate SCM files with latest version of ScreenCam you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the SCM file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where ScreenCam is installed, check the Always use this app to open SCM files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected SCM file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with SCM extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

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

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the SCM file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

If the SCM is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the SCM file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

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

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. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run ScreenCam

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support SCM files. Close all running programs and try opening the SCM file.

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 ScreenCam Screen Recording file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with SCM files affecting older versions of given software.

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