MDI File Extension

What is MDI file?

MDI files are generated and managed by Microsoft Office Document Imaging (MODI) utility available for Microsoft Office XP, 2003 and 2007. MDI is a high-resolution graphic file containing scanned documents.

Converting MDI files

MDI files are tag-based, which enables their usage with optical character recognition (OCR) software. Graphical data in MDI can be converted into plain text file and saved as Microsoft Word DOC.

MDI format compatibility

MDI files can be converted into TIFF format for better compatibility with third-party software using this more universal file format. Despite many similarities with TIFF format , MDI format is proprietary to Microsoft. Saving MDI files in TIFF format guarantees image compatibility with other programs and applications.

Programs which support MDI file extension

Programs that can handle MDI files are as follows. Files with MDI 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.

Updated: 12/29/2019

How to open file with MDI extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening MDI files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with MDI 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 MDI files.

Step 1. Download and install Microsoft Office

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening MDI files is that no program that can handle MDI files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Office or different compatible program, such as MDI Converter. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading Microsoft Office installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft Office and update if needed

You still cannot access MDI files although Microsoft Office is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of Microsoft Office installed, it may not support MDI format. The latest version of Microsoft Office should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open MDI files to Microsoft Office

If you have the latest version of Microsoft Office installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage MDI on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the MDI with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft Office installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open MDI files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected MDI file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with MDI extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

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

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper MDI file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Verify that the MDI in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the MDI is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the MDI file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. MDI file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the MDI file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic MDI file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. 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. When downloading the file with MDI extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft Office

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

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Microsoft Document Imaging Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with MDI files affecting older versions of given software.

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