CGM File – What is .cgm file and how to open it?
CGM File Extension
Computer Graphics Metafile – file format by N/A
CGM (Computer Graphics Metafile) is a file format developed by N/A that stores 2D vector graphics. It is used for exchanging graphics data between different applications and platforms. CGM files can contain both graphical and textual information.
Understanding the CGM File Format
The Computer Graphics Metafile (CGM) file format is a portable, device-independent graphics metafile format developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). It is widely used for storing and exchanging 2D vector and raster graphics data, including line drawings, images, text, and annotations. CGM files can be used in a variety of applications, such as computer-aided design (CAD), technical documentation, and graphic design.
CGM files are structured as a sequence of graphical elements, which can include lines, curves, text, images, and markers. Each element is defined by a set of attributes, such as line width, color, and fill pattern. The CGM format also supports layers, allowing for the organization of graphical elements into separate groups. Additionally, CGM files can contain metadata, such as the creation date, author, and application used to create the file.
Opening CGM Files natively
CGM (Computer Graphics Metafile) files are a vector graphics file format that can be opened with a variety of software programs. Some of the most popular programs include:
- Adobe Illustrator
- CorelDRAW
- Inkscape
- GIMP
These programs can all import and export CGM files, and they offer a variety of features for editing and manipulating vector graphics. Once you have opened a CGM file in one of these programs, you can edit the image, change the colors, add text, and more.
If you do not have any of these programs installed on your computer, you can also open CGM files using a web-based viewer. Some popular web-based viewers include:
- Google Drive
- Dropbox
- Box
These web-based viewers allow you to view CGM files without having to install any software. However, they may not offer as many features as the dedicated software programs.
Converting CGM Files to Other Formats
If you need to convert a CGM file to another format, you can use a variety of online and offline converters. Some popular converters include:
- Zamzar
- FileZigZag
- CloudConvert
These converters allow you to convert CGM files to a variety of other formats, including PDF, JPG, PNG, and SVG. Once you have converted the file, you can open it in any program that supports the new format.
CGM: Computer Graphics Metafile
The Computer Graphics Metafile (CGM) file extension is a widely accepted standard for the storage and exchange of 2D vector graphics. This format was developed in the 1980s by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to provide a universal way of representing graphical information regardless of the specific software or hardware used to create it. CGM files are commonly used in various industries, including architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and graphic design, for exchanging complex technical drawings, diagrams, and images.
CGM files offer several advantages, including their ability to store both vector and bitmap images in a single file. Vector graphics, such as lines, curves, and text, are defined mathematically, allowing them to be scaled and manipulated without losing quality. Bitmap images, on the other hand, are composed of pixels and are therefore resolution-dependent. The CGM format also supports color, transparency, geometric transformations, and annotation capabilities. This comprehensive feature set makes CGM files ideal for applications where accuracy, precision, and flexibility are essential.