PMF File Extension

What is PMF file?

Full format name of files that use PMF extension is ESRI Published Map Format. ESRI defined the ESRI Published Map Format format standard. Files with PMF extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. PMF file format, along with 255 other file formats, belongs to the GIS Files category. The most popular software that supports PMF files is ArcReader. On the official website of Esri developer not only will you find detailed information about theArcReader software, but also about PMF and other supported file formats.

Programs which support PMF file extension

The following listing features PMF-compatible programs. Files with PMF extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

How to open file with PMF extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening PMF files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with PMF extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with PMF files.

Step 1. Install ArcReader software

Problems with opening and working with PMF files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with PMF files being present on your machine. The solution is straightforward, just download and install ArcReader. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading ArcReader installed is by going to developer’s website (Esri) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of ArcReader and update if needed

You still cannot access PMF files although ArcReader is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of ArcReader installed, it may not support PMF format. The latest version of ArcReader should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate ESRI Published Map Format files with ArcReader

After installing ArcReader (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PMF files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Change the default application in Windows

• Clicking the PMF with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where ArcReader is installed, check the Always use this app to open PMF files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected PMF file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select ArcReader and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with PMF extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the PMF file is complete and free of errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the PMF file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The PMF may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the PMF is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. PMF file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with PMF extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the PMF file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with PMF extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the ESRI Published Map Format file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle ArcReader

If the systems has insufficient resources to open PMF files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with ESRI Published Map Format file. It may be the case that the PMF files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

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