ACX File – What is .acx file and how to open it?
ACX File Extension
Atari ST Program – file format by Atari
An Atari ST Program file with the extension ACX is an executable file format developed by Atari for their Atari ST line of personal computers. It contains machine code instructions that are executed by the Atari ST’s Motorola 68000 CPU.
Atari ST Program Formats
ACX files are executable program files used on the Atari ST computer platform, which was a popular personal computer in the 1980s and early 1990s. The Atari ST platform was known for its advanced multimedia capabilities, including high-resolution graphics and sound synthesis, making it a popular choice for game developers and musicians.
ACX files are binary files that contain the compiled code of an Atari ST program. They are typically distributed as compressed archives, which must be decompressed before the program can be executed. When an ACX file is executed, the Atari ST operating system loads the program into memory and transfers control to its entry point. The program then begins execution, and can perform a variety of tasks, such as displaying graphics, playing sounds, and interacting with the user.
Accessing ACX Files with Compatible Software
An ACX file serves as an executable program specifically designed for the Atari ST computer system. To open and execute this file, you will need to utilize an emulator or a dedicated Atari ST machine. Emulators like Hatari and MESS provide virtual environments that mimic the Atari ST’s hardware capabilities, allowing you to run ACX programs on modern computers. Alternatively, if you have access to an actual Atari ST computer with a working floppy disk drive, you can insert the disk containing the ACX file into the drive and boot from it to run the program.
Extracting and Decompiling ACX Files
In certain scenarios, you may not be able to execute an ACX file due to hardware limitations or compatibility issues. In such cases, you can extract the contents of the ACX file using specialized tools. One such tool is acx2raw, which extracts the raw data from the ACX file. Another alternative is to decompile the ACX file into a more accessible format. Decompilers like acxdec can convert the ACX code into assembly language, making it easier to analyze or modify the program. These extracted or decompiled versions can be used for further research, preservation, or compatibility purposes.
ACX: Atari ST Program
ACX files are executable files created for the Atari ST computer system, a popular home computer platform from the 1980s and 1990s. These files contain instructions and data necessary for the Atari ST to run a particular program or application. ACX files are typically larger than STX files, as they include additional information such as relocation records and a symbol table, which are needed for loading and executing the program.
One of the key features of ACX files is their self-relocating nature. This means that the file can be loaded into different memory locations without requiring any modifications to the code. This was an important feature for the Atari ST, as it allowed programs to be run from any location on a disk or cartridge, without needing to be specifically installed. ACX files also support the use of multiple segments, which allows programs to be broken up into smaller, more manageable units for efficient loading and execution. Additionally, ACX files can contain multiple entry points, enabling programs to support different modes of execution or to allow for modular code reuse.