TCX File Extension

What is TCX file?

TCX is a XML database file generated by Garmin and Fitbit devices. This file format is mostly used by Garmin Training Center software. TCX file contains various data related to sports, including type of sport, time records, distance, burned calories, training intensity, and heart rate.

TCX file applications

TCX files are encoded in XML format, and are used as a means of exchanging data between various physical activity monitoring devices. Registered data can be also uploaded to personal computers. Such data is helpful in managing one’s physical activities.

Two versions of TCX format

TCX file format has two versions – TCX v1 and TCX v2. Latest editions of Garmin Training Center software support both versions.

Programs which support TCX file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with TCX files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with TCX 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: 01/07/2020

How to open file with TCX extension?

Being unable to open files with TCX extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with TCX extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install Garmin Training Center

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports TCX files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select Garmin Training Center or one of the recommended programs (for example, Garmin Connect) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support TCX files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Garmin Training Center website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Garmin Training Center and update if needed

If the problems with opening TCX files still occur even after installing Garmin Training Center, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Garmin Training Center 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 Garmin Training Center installed, it may not support TCX format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Garmin Training Center.

Step 3. Associate Training Center Database Format files with Garmin Training Center

If you have the latest version of Garmin Training Center installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage TCX 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

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the TCX file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Garmin Training Center is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open TCX files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the TCX file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• 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 TCX extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the TCX for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the TCX file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

If the TCX 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 TCX file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the TCX file’s structure is intact

If the TCX file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with TCX 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 out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Training Center Database Format file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Garmin Training Center

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

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Training Center Database Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with TCX files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

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