3 steps to open file with ADF extension
Usually solving problems with ADF file is simple – just install proper software and open the file. Read the guide and open ADF file now!
ADF File Extension
- File type ArcView ARC/INFO Coverage Data Format
- File developer ESRI
- File category GIS Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) ADF file?
A GIS file with the extension .ADF stores specific classes of functions of geographical features, such as spatial, vector and attribute data creating a model of georelation data in the form of an ArcGis type scope (mapped in space of a single aspect of data). It is characteristic of ArcView (ArcGIS).
How to open ADF file?
There could be multiple reasons for which the system does not support given file. In the case of ADF 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 ADF files
If an application that supports ADF 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 ADF 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 ADF 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 ADF 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 ADF files. If this step fails, see step 1.
Programs that support files with ADF extension
Step 3: Check the ADF 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:
- ADF 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 ADF 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 ADF 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
