123C File – What is .123c file and how to open it?

Autodesk 123C Drawing File Format

A 123C file is an Autodesk 123C Drawing file, which is a proprietary file format developed by Autodesk for use with their 123D Design software. It is a compressed file format that stores a 3D model, as well as its associated materials, textures, and camera settings. 123C files are typically used to store 3D models that are intended to be shared or published online.

Features of 123C Files

123C files are designed to be lightweight and easy to share, while still maintaining a high level of quality. They support a variety of 3D model formats, including OBJ, STL, and DAE. 123C files also support a variety of materials and textures, which can be used to create realistic-looking 3D models.

Additionally, 123C files can store camera settings, which can be used to render the 3D model from a specific viewpoint. This makes it easy to create 3D models that can be viewed in a variety of ways, including online, on mobile devices, and in virtual reality environments.

Using Native Software

Autodesk 123D Catch is the primary application associated with .123C files. It is a discontinued 3D scanning and modeling software developed by Autodesk. To open a .123C file using 123D Catch, follow these steps:

1. Install Autodesk 123D Catch on your computer from Autodesk’s website.
2. Launch 123D Catch and select “File” > “Open.”
3. Navigate to the location of the .123C file and select it.
4. Click “Open” to load the file into 123D Catch.

Using Third-Party Software

If you don’t have access to Autodesk 123D Catch, you can use third-party software that supports the .123C format. One such software is MeshLab.

1. Install MeshLab on your computer from the MeshLab website.
2. Launch MeshLab and select “File” > “Import Mesh.”
3. Navigate to the location of the .123C file and select it.
4. Click “Open” to import the file into MeshLab.

Autodesk 123D Catch File Format

.123C files are a proprietary file format used by Autodesk 123D Catch, a now-discontinued photogrammetry software application. With the help of multiple photographs, 123D Catch enabled users to create 3D models of objects or scenes. The .123C file format stores the intermediate data used in the photogrammetry process, including camera information, calibration parameters, point cloud data, and mesh data. These files provide a convenient way to save and exchange partially processed photogrammetry data for further editing and refinement.

Data Structure and Compatibility

In terms of data structure, .123C files are divided into sections, each containing specific information such as camera data, point cloud coordinates, and mesh data. The file format is optimized for efficient storage and retrieval of data, allowing for seamless processing of large photogrammetry datasets.

It’s important to note that the .123C file format is proprietary to Autodesk and is not widely supported by other software applications. However, some third-party tools and plugins have been developed to import and export .123C files, enabling compatibility with a wider range of software.

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