PCD File Extension

What is PCD file?

PCD file extension is used by CD image files created by picture processing devices manufactured by Kodak. PCD files store high-resolution images in compressed form.

One PCD file, many resolutions

Single PCD file typically stores five copies of given image, each at different resolution. The first image, the smallest one, is a thumbnail used as a preview image; it usually is 192x126 pixels in size. Intermediate resolution images are at 384x256, 768x512, 1536x1024 pixels, respectively, and the highest resolution picture is at 3072 x 2048 pixel in size. An additional, sixth, resolution is reserved for Pro Photo CD standard image of 6144 x 4096 pixels in size.

Technical data

• PCD files allow for storing 24-bit color depth images on CD.
• PCD uses encoding based on transformed gamma YCC encoding.

Programs which support PCD file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support PCD files. Files with PCD 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: 01/25/2023

How to open file with PCD extension?

Being unable to open files with PCD extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Kodak Photo CD Image Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with PCD files.

Step 1. Get the Adobe Photoshop

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports PCD files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Adobe Photoshop or different compatible program, such as ACDSee, PaintShop Pro, XnView. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download Adobe Photoshop installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Adobe Systems Incorporated website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Adobe Photoshop to the latest version

If the problems with opening PCD files still occur even after installing Adobe Photoshop, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Adobe Photoshop is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Adobe Photoshop cannot handle files with PCD may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of Adobe Photoshop is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Kodak Photo CD Image Format files with Adobe Photoshop

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate PCD files with latest version of Adobe Photoshop you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the PCD file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Adobe Photoshop is installed, check the Always use this app to open PCD files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the PCD file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with PCD extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the PCD 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 PCD file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PCD file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the PCD file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

Did you receive the PCD file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the PCD file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

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. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Adobe Photoshop

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with PCD extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Kodak Photo CD Image Format files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with PCD files affecting older versions of given software.

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