STP File Extension

What is STP file?

STP file contains 3D object project saved in STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product Data) format. STP format is similar to less frequently used STEP format. STP is a ASCII text file that conforms to ISO 10303-11 standard specification, sometimes referred to as EXPRESS. The format is platform-independent. It was developed as an universal, nonproprietary standard to facilitate 2D/3D project data exchange between applications. Development of STP started in 1984 with the aim to standardize data exchange process for PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems.

STP files are also used for sharing and archiving data. The parts of STEP standard related to CAD applications are designated 2xx. Main protocols for 3D modeling were redefined in 2014 and specified in AP 242 document, which combined and replaced the following documents:

• AP 201 – simple 2D drawing geometry,
• AP 202 – 2D/3D drawing with associations, but with no assembly hierarchy,
• AP 203 – 3D designs of project parts,
• AP 204 – mechanical design along with its representation,
• AP 214 – Core data for automotive mechanical design.

STP file must follow its specification if they are used for sharing data between different apllications or plaforms. Projects stored in neutral STP format may contain fewer information than those saved in application’s native format. Most commonly exchanged STP data is that of CAD project parts for CAM systems.

Programs which support STP file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open STP files divided into 7 categories according to system platform supported. Files with STP 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: 01/04/2023

How to open file with STP extension?

Problems with accessing STP may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with STP 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. Install TurboCAD software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening STP files is that no program that can handle STP files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing TurboCAD or different compatible program, such as CATIA, Fusion 360, STP Viewer. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit TurboCAD website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of TurboCAD

If the problems with opening STP files still occur even after installing TurboCAD, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of TurboCAD is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of TurboCAD installed, it may not support STP format. The most recent version of TurboCAD is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate STEP 3D CAD Format files with TurboCAD

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

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the STP file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the TurboCAD installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open STP files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the STP file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select TurboCAD and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with STP extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the STP is not faulty

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

1. Check the STP file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the STP is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the STP file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

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

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run TurboCAD

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with STP extension. In this case close the other applications.

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with STEP 3D CAD Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle STP files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the STP 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 STP file.