CAL File – What is .cal file and how to open it?

Overview of CAL Files

A CAL file, also known as a Calendar File, is a file format primarily used with the Broderbund Print Shop software suite, particularly for creating and managing calendar designs. It stores data related to calendar elements such as dates, events, holidays, appointments, and visual formatting options. CAL files enable users to customize and print personalized calendars containing specific information and aesthetics.

CAL File Format and Compatibility

CAL files are proprietary to Broderbund and are compatible with the Print Shop software versions 1.0 to 23.0. They use a structured format that defines the layout and content of the calendar. Each element in the calendar is represented by a specific code within the file, allowing the Print Shop software to interpret and display the calendar information accurately. CAL files are designed to work seamlessly within the Print Shop environment and cannot be natively opened or edited by other calendar applications.

Opening CAL Files with Apple Calendar

For Mac users, CAL files can be readily opened using Apple Calendar, the default calendar application on macOS. Simply double-click the CAL file to launch Apple Calendar and load the event data. The events will be displayed in the calendar’s interface, allowing for easy viewing, editing, and management.

Opening CAL Files on Windows

Unfortunately, there is no built-in support for opening CAL files on Windows operating systems. To open these files, you will need to download and install third-party software that supports the CAL file format. One such software is the Broderbund Calendar Creator, which was originally developed by Broderbund Software and is now owned by The Learning Company. Another option is to use a general-purpose file viewer like FileViewer Plus, which can open a wide range of file formats, including CAL files.

CAL File Format

CAL files, or Calendar Files, were originally developed by Broderbund, a software company known for its popular educational and entertainment software, including Print Shop and The Print Shop. CAL files were primarily used by Broderbund’s Calendar Creator program, a personal calendar and scheduling application. They serve as data files that store calendar events, appointments, and other related information.

Inside a CAL file, events are typically organized chronologically, with each entry containing details such as the event title, date, time, location, and any relevant notes. The format also allows for the inclusion of additional attributes, such as categories, priorities, and reminders. CAL files provide a convenient way to manage personal schedules, track appointments, and organize important dates and events. They can be easily accessed and edited using Calendar Creator or other compatible calendar applications.

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