Four Easy Ways to Open MODEL Files

The scenario: You have a file with the MODEL file extension on your computer that you need to open. You double-click it as usual, expecting for a program to load it up, but sadly nothing happens. You try it again, but still nothing happens. What can you do? Try these four easy methods to open a troublesome MODEL file.

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1st Method: Open it in another program.

When you double-click MODEL files, your computer attempts to open it in a program associated with MODEL files. If there’s no program associated with MODEL files on your computer, the file won’t open. To open the file, download one of the most popular programs associated with MODEL files such as PlantWALK Model, LEGO CAD Model File, or CATIA Model.

2nd Method: Take a hint from the file type.

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The MODEL file extension usually indicates it's under the umbrella of CAD Files. However, if it’s another file type, it might not open with one of the programs listed above. Take the following steps to find the file type:

  1. Right-click the file.
  2. Click “Properties” (Windows) or “More Info” (Mac).
  3. Locate the file type under either “Type of File” (Windows) or “Kind” (Mac).

3rd Method: Check with the developer.

So you’ve tried using a different program, you’ve confirmed the file type, and your MODEL file still won’t open. Even if these methods were unsuccessful, you might still be able to reach out to a software developer for help. Use the chart below to find the developer for each of the programs mentioned above and contact them directly for assistance.

Software Developed By
PlantWALK Model Microsoft Developer
LEGO CAD Model File The LEGO Group
CATIA Model Dassault Systèmes
Ribbons Molecular Model PC Software Company
ActiveModeler Avantage Process Model KAISHA-Tec Co. Ltd.

4th Method: Open it in a universal file viewer.

If the developer isn’t able to help, a universal file viewer probably can. File Magic (Download) and similar programs are designed to open a wide variety of file formats, including MODEL files. Some aren’t compatible and will only open in binary. Download File Magic now to open you MODEL and hundreds of other file types with one program!

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