3 steps to open file with 3DM extension
Usually solving problems with 3DM file is simple – just install proper software and open the file. Read the guide and open 3DM file now!
3DM File Extension
- File type Rhino 3D Model
- File developer Robert McNeel & Associates
- File category 3D Image Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) 3DM file?
3DM is a proprietary 3D Model file format developed by Robert McNeel & Associates for the computer-aided design (CAD) program Rhino 3D. This format supports both NURBS and polygon meshes in a single file, which means that you can use one file for multiple purposes such as product design and animation. It also supports other features such as colors, curves, bitmaps, layers, etc. 3DM files contain all data related to the model including information about objects and their locations in the 3D model.
The .3dm format is highly suitable for collaboration between different CAD programs as it offers excellent compatibility with many popular 3D programs. This file is also compatible with other software packages used in advanced industry sectors such as animation, architecture and engineering. Since Rhino 3D is an iterative CAD system, all the changes made by users are stored within the single .3dm file.
How to open 3DM file?
There could be multiple reasons for which the system does not support given file. In the case of 3DM extension, it is probable that none of the installed programs support given file type. Therefore, user should undertake the following steps
Step 1: Install a program that supports 3DM files
If an application that supports 3DM files is installed on user’s system, but is not used to open such files by default, right-click on the file icon and choose "Open with" option from the menu. Next, select the proper application and check the "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" box. The system will store this information in its registry and use the selected program to open files with 3DM extension by default.
Hint for Mac OS users
For Mac OS users the procedure is analogous – open the file menu by right-clicking on the 3DM file and choose "Information" option and select "Open with program" option. From the submenu select an application and click on "Change all" button.
Step 2: Find and download proper software
Inability to open 3DM files may also be related to the lack of any application that supports given file being installed on the system. Should that be the case, user needs to download and install one of the following applications. Once installed, the system will automatically associate newly installed application with 3DM files. If this step fails, see step 1.
Programs that support files with 3DM extension
Step 3: Check the 3DM file for errors
Sometimes, although relatively rarely, steps 1 and 2 might not lead to expected results. There can be several reasons for such situation to occur:
- 3DM file has been downloaded from the internet but for some reason it is incomplete. In such case the file should be re-downloaded and opened again.
- Structure of given 3DM file could be corrupted and as such the program is not able to open the file
- Storage medium on which the file was stored is damaged
- It is important to ascertain that the icon representing given file is not a shortcut a related 3DM file no longer present in the location to which the shortcut points
- If the user account has restricted access privileges it is advised to contact the system administrator or an IT expert
