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Issue: You Can't Open SHX Files
You might've double-clicked on the file, to be greeted with the "Choose a program to open the file" message. In some cases, you might be able to open the file, but the contents may seem garbled and that's because it was written to be opened in a specific program. Of course, you can't open a SHX file with just any software. Not to worry - we have you covered!
Step 1: Find Out Which Software Uses SHX Files
Opening your SHX file starts with understanding which software uses a SHX extension. In many cases, different types of software may use the same file extensions, also known as file associations.
ArcView DataBase Index, RAZR Flash File, and GIS Software Geographic Shape Index File are the most popular software packages that use SHX files. Therefore, your best bet would be to download one of these software packages and use one of them to open your file.
Zipped files tend to require special handling and may require password access. Contact the file owner or the person who gave you the file for the password and unzip the file before attempting to open the contents.
Step 2: Learning More About SHX "File Type"
If you can't download ArcView DataBase Index, RAZR Flash File, or GIS Software Geographic Shape Index File software, or if they don't work to open your SHX file, you may be able to use the file type as a clue to finding out how you can open it. Using a Windows PC, you can right-click and navigate to "Properties" and then to "Type of file". On a Mac, select "More info" and "Kind".
Most likely, you will find that SHX files are considered Data Files. Because many programs packages utilize Data Files, you might be able to find a program on your computer that handles those types of files.
If that still does not work, you may have to contact the associated software developer to find out how to open it. Unless you know the specific developer, you could contact one of these developers for assistance.
Please see our chart below of software titles and their developers:
| Software | Developer |
|---|---|
| ArcView DataBase Index | ESRI |
| RAZR Flash File | Motorola Inc. |
| GIS Software Geographic Shape Index File | Microsoft Developer |
| AutoCAD Shape Entities | Autodesk Inc. |
Solution: Use File Magic to Open Your SHX File
Although some files must be opened in binary file format (ie. in the program or device for which it was developed), you might be able to open it with a universal software viewer. Depending on the exact file format, you could use a universal software viewer such as File Magic [download] to open your SHX file. Download File Magic today to open your SHX files and hundreds of other file types with one program.
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1File types that are unsupported can be opened in binary format.
