ACT File – What is .act file and how to open it?
ACT File Extension
ADPCM Compressed Audio – file format by Actions Semiconductor
ACT (ADPCM Compressed Audio) is a file extension developed by Actions Semiconductor. It is used for storing audio data that has been compressed using the Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation (ADPCM) algorithm. ACT files are typically found on devices that use the Actions Semiconductor chipsets, such as MP3 players and smartphones.
ACT File Format
An ACT file is a proprietary audio file format developed by Actions Semiconductor. It uses the Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation (ADPCM) compression algorithm to reduce the file size while maintaining a relatively high audio quality. ADPCM is a lossy compression method that discards some of the audio data to achieve a smaller file size. However, it typically retains the essential characteristics of the original audio signal, making it suitable for applications where storage space is a constraint.
ACT files are commonly used for storing audio data in embedded systems and portable devices, such as digital cameras, voice recorders, and MP3 players. They are also used in some software applications and video games to provide background music and sound effects. The ACT file format is not as widely supported as other audio file formats, such as WAV or MP3, but it is still used in certain niche applications due to its compact size and compatibility with older devices.
Programs That Open ACT Files
Several software programs can open ACT files. These include:
- Actions Semiconductor’s ADPCM Codec: This is the official software used to compress and decompress ACT files.
- VLC Media Player: This free and open-source media player can play ACT files.
- FFmpeg: This command-line tool can convert ACT files to other audio formats.
- Media Player Classic: This free and open-source media player can play ACT files.
- Windows Media Player: This is Microsoft’s built-in media player, which can play ACT files.
How to Open ACT Files
To open an ACT file, double-click on it. This should automatically launch the default program associated with ACT files. If you do not have a program associated with ACT files, you can download one of the above-listed programs and install it.
Once you have a program installed that can open ACT files, simply double-click on the file to launch the program and begin playing the audio.
Tips for Opening ACT Files
If you are having trouble opening an ACT file, try the following:
- Make sure that the file is not corrupt. You can try opening the file in a different program.
- Make sure that you have the latest version of the program that you are using to open the file.
- Try updating your sound card drivers.
- Contact the software developer for help.
ACT File Format
ACT (ADPCM Compressed Audio) is a proprietary audio file format developed by Actions Semiconductor, primarily used in action cameras and other consumer electronics devices. It employs Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation (ADPCM) to compress audio data, resulting in reduced file sizes while maintaining acceptable sound quality. ACT files typically contain mono or stereo audio tracks encoded at a sample rate of 8 kHz or 16 kHz.
Key Features and Usage
ACT files offer several advantages over uncompressed audio formats. Their smaller file size allows for efficient storage and transmission, making them suitable for devices with limited storage capacity or bandwidth. Furthermore, the ADPCM compression technique preserves audio quality by maintaining the essential spectral characteristics of the original signal. ACT files are commonly found in action cameras, drones, and other portable audio devices where file size optimization is a critical consideration. They are also used in certain multimedia applications and software tools that support the ACT format.