IC1 File – What is .ic1 file and how to open it?
IC1 File Extension
Low Resolution Imagic Graphics File – file format by Atari
IC1 is a file extension for a low-resolution graphics file format developed by Atari for use with their 8-bit home computers. IC1 files store bitmap images in a compressed format, allowing them to be stored on disk and loaded into memory more quickly than uncompressed images.
IC1 File Format
The IC1 file format, also known as Low Resolution Imagic Graphics File, was developed by Atari specifically for use with its Atari 8-bit computers, including the Atari 400 and Atari 800. IC1 files store low-resolution graphics data, typically with a resolution of 160×102 pixels and 8 colors. They are commonly used for storing character graphics, sprites, and other small images in games and other applications.
IC1 files are relatively simple in structure, consisting of a header that contains information about the image’s dimensions, color palette, and other attributes, followed by the actual pixel data. The pixel data is stored in a packed format, with each byte representing two pixels. The IC1 file format is designed to be efficient and compact, making it suitable for storing large numbers of small images on the limited storage media verfügblich on Atari 8-bit computers.
Opening IC1 Files with Specialized Software
IC1 files, representing low-resolution Imagic Graphics, are proprietary to Atari. To open and view these files, specific software that supports the IC1 format is required.
Atari released a proprietary application called “Imagic Desk Manager” that was primarily designed to work with IC1 files. This program provides the ability to open, view, edit, and convert IC1 graphics. Alternatively, users can opt for third-party software that supports the IC1 format. Notable options include graphics editors like XnView and IrfanView, which offer compatibility with IC1 files. These programs allow users to view the images and perform basic editing operations such as resizing and cropping.
Additional Notes on IC1 File Handling
It’s important to note that IC1 files are a relatively outdated format, and support for them may be limited in modern software. If encountering difficulties opening IC1 files, consider using alternative methods such as converting them to a more widely supported format like PNG or JPEG. Additionally, some online services provide IC1 file conversion, which can be a convenient option for occasional file handling.
Development and Usage
The IC1 file extension, short for Low Resolution Imagic Graphics File, was developed by Atari for use with their ST series of personal computers. IC1 files are specifically designed to store low-resolution graphics, typically used in early video games and applications. The file format is characterized by its simplicity and efficiency, making it suitable for storing basic graphic elements such as sprites and backgrounds.
File Structure and Features
IC1 files adhere to a specific file structure that includes a header section containing information about the image’s dimensions and color palette. The image data is stored as a series of bytes, each representing a single pixel. IC1 files support a limited color palette, typically consisting of 16 or 32 colors. This restriction allows for compact file sizes while still providing basic visual information. Additionally, IC1 files may include transparency information, enabling the creation of transparent elements within the graphics.