THING File Extension

What is THING file?

Files saved with the .THING extension contain a 3D model made using MakerBot Desktop software. It acts as a ZIP package container for component STL files along with an XML manifest file. The .THING format is the default for saving projects created in the software. It allows for the saving of complex multi-element 3D models, which can then be printed on 3D printers.

What information do .THING files contain?

This format is used to save complex three-dimensional models - settings and displacements of individual elements. In .THING files created by default when saving a model or group of models in MakerBot Desktop software are included:

• detailed data of each element,
• orientation of each of the models,
• position of each of the models in relation to the others on the substrate,

This approach allows for later changes, modifications to the arrangement of individual elements. It would not be available if the project was saved in a single STL file.

Opening and modifying .THING files

3D model files with the .THING extension are only compatible with MakerBot Desktop software. Therefore, if it is necessary to transfer data to another platform, it should be saved in a more universal format. However, it is possible to edit individual elements of the 3D project. You need to unzip the ZIP package using a tool that supports this type of compression and extract the required STL file.

Programs which support THING file extension

Programs that can handle THING files are as follows. THING files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 03/18/2024

How to open file with THING extension?

Being unable to open files with THING extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with THING 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. Get the MakerBot

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports THING files installed on the system. To address this issue, go to the MakerBot developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy 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 MakerBot website and download the installer.

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

If you already have MakerBot installed on your systems and THING 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. This can be one of the causes why THING files are not compatible with MakerBot. The most recent version of MakerBot is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate MakerBot Desktop Thing Format files with MakerBot

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

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 THING file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the MakerBot installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open THING files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected THING file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select MakerBot and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with THING extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the THING is not faulty

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper THING file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the THING file for viruses or malware

If the THING is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the THING file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

Did you receive the THING 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. When downloading the file with THING 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

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 MakerBot Desktop Thing Format file.

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

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

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with MakerBot Desktop Thing Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle THING files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the THING 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 THING file.