DS file format: what a 3DS file is and how to open it
Learn what the DS file format means, how legacy 3DS files store meshes, UVs and materials, and the safest ways to open or convert them.
3D Wiki
177 posts
X3D File Format: What It Is and How to Open It
Learn what the X3D file format is, how X3D files open in browsers, and when X3D vs glTF is the better choice for web 3D workflows.
PTS File: What the Point Cloud Format Means
Learn what a PTS file stores, how point-cloud PTS format differs from PTX and E57, and how to open or convert it safely in 3D workflows.
E57 Point Cloud: What the Format Stores
Learn what an E57 point cloud is, what the E57 file format can store, and why images, poses, and attributes may differ by software.
PRC File: What It Is and How It Works
Learn what a PRC file is, how the PRC format stores 3D geometry in PDF workflows, and when to use PRC vs U3D for precise models.
LAS vs LAZ: What’s the Difference in LiDAR Files?
Learn LAS vs LAZ: how uncompressed LAS and losslessly compressed LAZ store LiDAR point clouds, plus metadata, CRS, and workflow risks.
XYZ Point Cloud: What It Is and How to Use It
Learn what an XYZ point cloud is, how the XYZ file format stores points, how to open it safely, and when to convert to E57 or LAS.
STL ASCII vs binary: which format should you use?
STL ASCII vs binary: learn the differences in file size, readability, and workflow, and see why binary STL is usually the best choice for printing.
Parasolid File: What It Is and How It Works
Learn what a Parasolid file is, how .x_t and .x_b differ, and when to use Parasolid file exchange versus STEP, STL, or 3MF in CAD workflows.
DM file (Rhino): what a 3DM file is and how to open it
Learn what a DM file (Rhino) really is, which apps open .3dm files, and when to view, edit, import, or convert Rhino 3D models.
