TGA File Extension

What is TGA file?

TGA file format, sometimes referred to as Targa (short for Truevision Advanced Raster Graphics Adapter) is a format used by raster images files. TGA isn’t a format recommended for storing camera photos, but it can handle well such data as simple drawings, line graphics, or icons.

TGA format specification

Data in TGA files are saved with 8, 16, 24, or 32 bits of precision per pixel (up to 24 bits per pixels for RGB and extra 8 bits for alpha channel). TGA supports direct color or truecolor. TGA format can store data using RLE lossless compression.

The history of TGA format

The Targa format was developed in 1984 by Truevision, which was later bought by Avid Technology. The format was originally designed for TARGA graphics cards for IBM computers, which supported Truecolor format. in 1989 new features were added to the format, such as gamma settings, thumbnails, alpha channel type, display format, or support for metadata.

Uses of TGA files

TGA file are still popular today. The format is in animations and computer games for storing texture data.

Programs which support TGA file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open TGA files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with TGA 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: 06/27/2020

How to open file with TGA extension?

Being unable to open files with TGA extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with TGA 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 QuickTime Player

Problems with opening and working with TGA files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with TGA files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing QuickTime Player or different compatible program, such as Adobe Photoshop, ACDSee, Canvas. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download QuickTime Player installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Apple, Inc. website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of QuickTime Player

If you already have QuickTime Player installed on your systems and TGA files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why TGA files are not compatible with QuickTime Player. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using QuickTime Player.

Step 3. Assign QuickTime Player to TGA files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate TGA files with latest version of QuickTime Player you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the TGA 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 QuickTime Player is installed, check the Always use this app to open TGA files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

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

Step 4. Check the TGA for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the TGA file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Verify that the TGA in question is not infected with a computer virus

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

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

If you obtained the problematic TGA file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. When downloading the file with TGA 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

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open QuickTime Player

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

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Targa Graphic file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle TGA files.

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