How to open STEP files? 4 simple methods of solving such problems
When you encounter a problem with an unknown STEP 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 STEP files and how to solve them in 4 simple steps.
STEP File Extension
- File type STEP 3D Model
- File developer N/A
- File category 3D Image Files
-
File popularity rating
-
What is a(n) STEP file?
The .STEP extension is characteristic of a 3D modeled file formatted in accordance with the ISO Standard for Exchange of Product Data standard to allow access to data from various graphics programs. Applications for displaying and editing 3d models usually use different formats, so thanks to the unification of the recording to the indicated extension, the transfer of information is much easier.
How to open STEP file?
In some cases problems may occur when trying to open STEP 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 STEP files. It may happen so that even when an application that supports STEP files is installed on the system it is not properly associated with this file format. This can be easily remedied by associating program with STEP 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 STEP file, focus on steps 1 and 2
In majority of cases following instruction in step 1 and 2 should be enough to open files with STEP extension. Before attempting the next steps, test all the programs listed below.
Step 2 – Install a program that supports STEP files
Should it happen that the section with suggested programs is empty, it is most probable that no program supporting STEP files is installed on the system. Choose a program from the following list and install it:
Programs that support files with STEP extension
Step 3 – Check for other possible causes of errors
- Corrupted storage medium on which the STEP 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 STEP 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 STEP file, you should contact an IT expert. You could also try to contact the developer of given software that supports STEP files. Appropriate website addresses can be found by clicking the name of given program in the list above.
