HGL File – What is .hgl file and how to open it?


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HGL File Extension

HP Graphics Language File – file format by Hewlett-Packard

HGL (HP Graphics Language File) is a vector graphics file format developed by Hewlett-Packard for use with their plotters and printers. It stores two-dimensional drawings as a series of commands that define lines, arcs, circles, and other shapes.

Definition of HGL

HGL (HP Graphics Language File) is a file format developed by Hewlett-Packard (HP) specifically for use with their HPGL (Hewlett-Packard Graphics Language) printers. It is a vector graphics file format that contains a series of commands that instruct the printer to draw lines, arcs, circles, and other geometric shapes. HGL files are typically used to store technical drawings, blueprints, and other types of vector-based graphics.

Uses and Applications

HGL files are widely supported by a variety of design and engineering software applications, making them a popular format for exchanging graphics between different programs and devices. They are commonly used in the computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and geographic information systems (GIS) industries. HGL files can also be used to create high-quality printouts on HPGL-compatible printers, providing accurate and detailed representations of vector graphics.

HGL File Format and Compatibility

HGL (HP Graphics Language) files are a vector-based file format originally developed by Hewlett-Packard (HP) for their plotters and printers. They store graphical data in a textual format, describing geometric shapes, lines, and text using HP’s proprietary commands. HGL files are primarily intended for printing and plotting, but they can also be viewed and edited using specialized software.

To open an HGL file, you will need a compatible software application installed on your computer. Several options are available, including:

  • HP-GL/2 Viewer: A freeware viewer specifically designed for HGL files, available from HP’s website.
  • Inkscape: A free and open-source vector graphics editor that supports importing and exporting HGL files.
  • CorelDRAW: A commercial vector graphics software that can import and convert HGL files.
  • Adobe Illustrator: A powerful vector graphics software that can open and convert HGL files with varying degrees of compatibility.

Once you have installed a suitable software, you can open the HGL file by using the “File” menu and selecting the “Open” or “Import” option. The software will load the file and display the graphical content. Note that some features or objects in the HGL file may not be fully supported by all viewers or editors, especially if they use specific HP-specific commands.

HP Graphics Language (HGL)

HP Graphics Language (HGL) is a vector graphics file format developed by Hewlett-Packard (HP) in the 1980s. HGL files contain a series of commands that describe how to draw lines, arcs, circles, and other geometric shapes. HGL is a device-independent format, meaning that it can be used to create graphics that can be printed on any HP plotter or printer.

HGL files are typically created using a software program called HPGL. HPGL is a command-line program that allows users to create and edit HGL files. HPGL can be used to create simple graphics, such as logos and charts, as well as complex graphics, such as engineering drawings and architectural plans.

HGL files are widely used in the engineering, architecture, and manufacturing industries. HGL files can be used to create drawings that can be used for planning, design, and production. HGL files can also be used to create presentations and other visual materials.

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