I cannot open a IMA 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 IMA files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening IMA will be resolved!
IMA File Extension
- File type Generic Disk Image
- File developer N/A
- File category Disk Image Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) IMA file?
The IMA (Interchangeable Media Archive) or Generic disk image file format is a raw storage format that deals with binary data as it is read or written from storage media such as optical discs, hard disks and removable USB drives. It differs from other existing file formats like ISO since it does not contain a filesystem structure nor does it contain any additional data associated with files created or stored on the media.
The data stored in IMA files consists of all files stored in a single contiguous block of bits and bytes, while also preserving the exact layout of the disk surface written to. This type of file format is mainly used by software developers for creating virtual disk images, debugging disk-related activities and producing master copies of floppy diskettes.
How to open IMA file?
If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with IMA 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 IMA files
After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open IMA files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:
Programs that support IMA files
Step 2. Verify whether IMA files are associated with appropriate software
It is possible that an application that supports IMA files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with IMA files (right-click on the file icon → Properties → General Tab → In submenu "Open with" and click on "Change" button. System will display a list of suggested programs that support IMA 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 IMA files with the selected program.
Changing IMA file association in registry
File association for IMA 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 IMA file for other errors
- IMA file was not copied properly from storage medium.
- Antivirus application prevents opening IMA files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected IMA file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
- For IMA 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.
