TCW file icon

TCW File Extension

TurboCAD Drawing Format
  • Developer
    IMSI/Design
  • Category
  • Popularity
    2.8 (11 votes)

What is TCW file?

Files with the TCW extension store two-dimensional or three-dimensional vector graphics in a proprietary format. It is specific to the TurboCAD software, where the TCW format is reserved for the program in the Windows operating system environment. The TCW extension is developed as TurboCAD for Windows. To transfer a project to an application on OS X, it is necessary to save it in the DXF or DWG format.

Content of TCW files

Files with the TCW extension can store projects of a very diverse nature. They are used similarly to AutoCAD projects by architects, engineers, and designers. These can be:

  • two-dimensional layouts - 2D layout,
  • single three-dimensional models - 3D model,
  • complete three-dimensional scenes - 3D scene.

The TurboCAD software created by IMSI DESIGN is available in many versions, depending on the application and users' needs. It allows for 2D and 3D modeling, rendering, 3D printing. It also includes a rich library of ready-to-use elements that facilitate work.

TCW files - format of recording and conversion

The TurboCAD TCW file format is specific to this software, being the native method of saving. There are no other programs or tools available that allow for viewing, opening, or converting TCW files to a more universal format. However, the software creator offers the possibility to use a free trial period for TurboCAD and convert the file to a common format. Thanks to this, it is possible to continue working on the project despite the lack of permanent access to the TurboCAD for Windows software.

Programs which support TCW file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support TCW files. Files with TCW 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.

Programs that support TCW file

Windows Windows
MAC OS MAC OS

Updated: 05/07/2024

How to open file with TCW extension?

Being unable to open files with TCW extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with TCW files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with TCW files.

Step 1. Download and install TurboCAD

Install software to open TCW file The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening TCW files is that no program that can handle TCW files is installed on user’s system. To address this issue, go to the TurboCAD developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy 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. Update TurboCAD to the latest version

Update software that support file extension TCWIf you already have TurboCAD installed on your systems and TCW files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that TurboCAD cannot handle files with TCW 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 TurboCAD.

Step 3. Associate TurboCAD Drawing Format files with TurboCAD

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

Associate software with TCW file on Windows

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

  • Clicking the TCW with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
  • Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
  • Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where TurboCAD is installed, check the Always use this app to open TCW files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button
Associate software with TCW file on Mac

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

  • Right-click the TCW file and 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....
  • Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with TCW extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the TCW is not faulty

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

Check TCW file for viruses
1. Check the TCW file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the TCW is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the TCW file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the TCW file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic TCW 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 TCW 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.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the TurboCAD Drawing Format file.

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

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

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 TurboCAD Drawing Format file. It may be the case that the TCW files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the TCW 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 TCW file.

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