Help! I Can’t Open PCB Files!

There are many reasons why your PCB file might not open on your computer. If you have PCB files that don’t open when you double-click it, ask yourself the following questions...

Download Universal File Viewer (File Magic) 

Optional Offer for File Magic by Solvusoft | EULA | Privacy Policy | Terms | Uninstall


Do I have the right program?

If you don’t have a program installed on your computer that’s compatible with PCB files, you won’t be able to open one. See if you have one of the most common programs associated with PCB files listed below.

  • P-CAD Database
  • PowerPoint Application Data File
  • Print Shop Deluxe Business Card
  • Protel Technology Advanced PCB Design
  • ExpressPCB Printed Circuit Board Layout
  • CADSTAR Printed Circuit Board Design
  • PC-Doctor File
  • PCB Artist Printed Circuit Board file
  • PADS Printed Circuit Board
  • Unknown 3.0 Binary File
  • PCB Layout Check Design Rule Template
  • ACCEL or Protel Printed Circuit Board File
  • Broderbund Print Shop Business Card
  • Ivex Winboard Design File
  • Unknown 4.0 Binary File

What type of file is it?

When you can’t open PCB files, try to figure out the file type. This can help you find the right program to open it. Usually, PCB files are considered Data Files. However, you can look up the file type to be sure. Start by right-clicking the file icon and clicking “Properties” (“More Info” if you’re on a Mac). Then look for the file type under “Type of File” (“Kind” on a Mac).

Can a developer help?

When you can’t open PCB files, a software developer might be able to help. The developers for the programs mentioned above are as follows:

Software Developer
P-CAD Database Altium Limited
PowerPoint Application Data File Microsoft Corporation
Print Shop Deluxe Business Card Unknown
Protel Technology Advanced PCB Design Windows Software
ExpressPCB Printed Circuit Board Layout ExpressPCB
CADSTAR Printed Circuit Board Design Quadra Solutions
PC-Doctor File Unknown
PCB Artist Printed Circuit Board file Advanced Circuits
PADS Printed Circuit Board Mentor Graphics Corp.
Unknown 3.0 Binary File Microsoft Developer
PCB Layout Check Design Rule Template Top Tec PCB Ltd.
ACCEL or Protel Printed Circuit Board File Microsoft Programmer
Broderbund Print Shop Business Card PC Software Company
Ivex Winboard Design File Microsoft Developer
Unknown 4.0 Binary File Windows Programmer

Try contacting one of these developers to find out how you can open your PCB file.

Can I use a universal file viewer?

A universal file viewer is the way to go when you have PCB files that can’t be opened by any other program. Install a universal file viewer like File Magic (Download) and see if it will open your PCB file. Remember that if your file is not compatible, the universal file viewer will only open it in binary format.


Recommended Download

File Magic



Download Universal File Viewer (File Magic) 

Optional Offer for File Magic by Solvusoft | EULA | Privacy Policy | Terms | Uninstall