I cannot open a CMAP file. What should I do? Help!

Virtually anyone has encountered some problems with opening unknown files while working on a computer. It can be very frustrating. Yet such problems, not only with CMAP files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening CMAP will be resolved!

CMAP File Extension

File
  • File type CmapTools Concept Map Format
  • File developer IHMC
  • File category Data Files
  • File popularity rating
    • Star
    • Star
    • Star
Preview

What is a(n) CMAP file?

The CMAP (CmapTools Concept Map Format) format is a visual representation of a concept map, namely a collection of interconnected concepts. It is supported by the CmapTools software, which can be used to create, modify and share concept maps. CMAP files are essentially XML documents and contain nodes that represent concepts, as well as arrows that denote connections between them and labels that provide more detailed information.

In addition to the graphical concept map, CMAP files also store the notes associated with each concept and the general details of the map such as title, description and author. CMAP files can be exported in various formats, including JPEG, PDF and SVG, making them suitable for sharing with others or for adding to presentations.

Open

How to open CMAP file?

If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with CMAP extension, it is highly probable that no program that supports given files is installed on the users’ system. Below is a list of actions user should pursue in order to resolve most common problems.

Step 1. Download and install application that supports CMAP files

After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open CMAP files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:

Programs that support CMAP files

Windows programs
Windows

Step 2. Verify whether CMAP files are associated with appropriate software

It is possible that an application that supports CMAP files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with CMAP files (right-click on the file icon → PropertiesGeneral Tab → In submenu "Open with" and click on "Change" button. System will display a list of suggested programs that support CMAP files. Choose the application by checking the box "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files". System will store this information in its registry and use it to open CMAP files with the selected program.

Changing CMAP file association in registry

File association for CMAP files can be edited manually by editing appropriate entry in Windows System Registry. However, it is discouraged as it may introduce errors to registry if not done properly and may even damage the system.

Step 3. Check CMAP file for other errors

  • CMAP file was not copied properly from storage medium.
  • Antivirus application prevents opening CMAP files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected CMAP file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
  • For CMAP files downloaded from the internet it is advised to check if the file has been downloaded completely and is not corrupted. If not, the file should be re-downloaded.

Similar file extensions