SID File Extension

What is SID file?

Files with .SID extension store multidimensional image database. SID file store large raster image with geographical coordinates. MrSID (sometimes pronounced as Mister Sid) is an acronym for multiresolution seamless image database. The format was developed during 1996-1997, originally as a GIS image encoding format. It was created in Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and commercialized by LizardTech company, which in 2018 merged with Extensis.

Structure of SID files

MrSid Generation 4 is the current version of the standard. It supports large images and a wavelet-based compression algorithm (lossy and lossless). SID format allows to store multiresolution images using single data source in a single file. Additionally, each image can be extracted without decoding the whole file, an useful feature when working with very large files (for which size is measured in terabytes).

Uses of MrSID files

Initial format specification allows storing compressed images without upper size limit. The format was designed for:

• Geographical information systems (GIS) for storing large images (aerial or satellite),
• FBI and other US federal agencies as means of storing fingerprints,
• Photo archiving and retrieval,
• American Memory at the Library of Congress for storing large image files, such as maps.

MrSID is a proprietary format and no SDK tools are available for developers to implement the format in their applications. GeoExpress package for Windows allows viewing SID files using a web browser.

Programs which support SID file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support SID files. SID files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 04/17/2022

How to open file with SID extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening SID files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with SID 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. Get the ERDAS IMAGINE

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports SID files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing ERDAS IMAGINE or different compatible program, such as ArcGIS Desktop, Canvas, Web browser. 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 ERDAS IMAGINE website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update ERDAS IMAGINE to the latest version

You still cannot access SID files although ERDAS IMAGINE 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. The reason that ERDAS IMAGINE cannot handle files with SID may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of ERDAS IMAGINE should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open SID files to ERDAS IMAGINE

If you have the latest version of ERDAS IMAGINE installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage SID on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the SID file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where ERDAS IMAGINE is installed, check the Always use this app to open SID files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected SID file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select ERDAS IMAGINE and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with SID extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the SID 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 SID file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

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

If the SID 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 SID file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the SID file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with SID 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 MrSID Image file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle ERDAS IMAGINE

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

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with MrSID Image files. It may be the case that the SID files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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