I cannot open a IAM 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 IAM files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening IAM will be resolved!

IAM File Extension

File
  • File type Inventor Assembly Format
  • File developer Autodesk
  • File category CAD Files
  • File popularity rating
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What is a(n) IAM file?

The IAM (Inventor Assembly Format) file format is used to store pieces and parts of a 3D assembly, such as a computer or an automobile, in a single file. The file typically contains geometry information about each component, such as dimensions, materials, and assembly constraints. It also stores information about each part's position relative to other components.

The IAM files are usually tied to an associated .IPT (Inventor Part File) containing the part geometry definition for each component of the assembly. They are used to store a complete 3D assembly for rendering and simulation in Autodesk Inventor or other computer aided engineering (CAE) software.

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How to open IAM file?

If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with IAM 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 IAM files

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

Programs that support IAM files

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

It is possible that an application that supports IAM files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with IAM 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 IAM 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 IAM files with the selected program.

Changing IAM file association in registry

File association for IAM 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 IAM file for other errors

  • IAM file was not copied properly from storage medium.
  • Antivirus application prevents opening IAM files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected IAM file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
  • For IAM 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.

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