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

  1. 1. MCD File Extension
  2. 2. What is a(n) MCD file?
  3. 3. How to open MCD file?
    1. 3.1 Download and install application that supports MCD files
      1. 3.1.1 Programs that support MCD files
    2. 3.2 Verify whether MCD files are associated with appropriate software
    3. 3.3 Check MCD file for other errors
  4. 4. Similar file extensions

MCD File Extension

File
  • File type VectorWorks Drawing Format
  • File developer Nemetschek AG
  • File category Vector Image Files
  • File popularity rating
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What is a(n) MCD file?

MCD (MacDraw/VectorWorks Drawing File) is a binary vector file format used for storing vector data produced by MacDraw and later VectorWorks on macOS. Files in MCD format are cross-platform compatible, allowing data exchange between platforms used to collate structural drawings, diagrams, and maps. MCD files contain raster images along with vector objects, including lines, curves, polygons, blocks, text legends, etc.

The MCD format also supports both detailed colors, blends, patterns and transparency so that the formatted files can accurately capture both intricate details as well as overall shapes of designs. This flexibility serves to make the MCD a very durable vector format when used in the process of sharing and sending complex graphics across different versions of VectorWorks, as well as other vector-based image programs.

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How to open MCD file?

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

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

Programs that support MCD files

Windows programs
Windows

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

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

Changing MCD file association in registry

File association for MCD 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 MCD file for other errors

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