How to open SMI files? 4 simple methods of solving such problems

When you encounter a problem with an unknown SMI file and you do not know how to open such file, the first step you should take is to determine the cause of given problem. We will show you how to address most common problems with SMI files and how to solve them in 4 simple steps.

SMI File Extension

File
  • File type SMIL Presentation
  • File developer N/A
  • File category Video Files
  • File popularity rating
    • Star
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What is a(n) SMI file?

SMI (SMIL Presentation) is a multimedia file format developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). It is widely used for creating synchronised multimedia presentations, such as those found in web browser plug-ins, multimedia kiosks, or as part of streaming audio and video broadcasts. SMI files use the XML language to synchronise audio, video, text, images, and other media elements into a cohesive presentation that can be played back in any web browser or interactive program that supports the SMIL standard.

SMI files are saved in XML text format and contain references to all the media elements found within the presentation. They also include information about how the media elements are to be synchronized. They may also include scripting instructions, which allow them to act as an interactive presentation, rather than a simply linear presentation. The SMI file is usually found alongside other media elements and assets required for the presentation.

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How to open SMI file?

In some cases problems may occur when trying to open SMI files. Steps listed below can be helpful in addressing such problems.

Step 1 – Verify whether the file is properly associated with selected software

The first thing user should do is to associate application with SMI files. It may happen so that even when an application that supports SMI files is installed on the system it is not properly associated with this file format. This can be easily remedied by associating program with SMI files. In order to associate such files with given application, user must open the file menu (by right-clicking on the file) and choosing "Open with". A list of suggested applications will be displayed at the top part of menu. Next, select an application and confirm your choice by checking "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" option. Confirm your selection by clicking OK.

In order to open SMI file, focus on steps 1 and 2

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In majority of cases following instruction in step 1 and 2 should be enough to open files with SMI extension. Before attempting the next steps, test all the programs listed below.

Step 2 – Install a program that supports SMI files

Should it happen that the section with suggested programs is empty, it is most probable that no program supporting SMI files is installed on the system. Choose a program from the following list and install it:

Programs that support files with SMI extension

Step 3 – Check for other possible causes of errors

  • Corrupted storage medium on which the SMI file is stored
  • File data corruption or incompleteness (for example, due to incomplete download or copy process). In such case the file must be re-downloaded or properly copied and then opened again.
  • Compatibility issues – check whether SMI extension is compatible with user’s operating system
  • Administrative policy settings may prevent user from opening given file

Step 4 – Contact an expert

If you are still unable to open SMI file, you should contact an IT expert. You could also try to contact the developer of given software that supports SMI files. Appropriate website addresses can be found by clicking the name of given program in the list above.

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