PLY File Extension

What is PLY file?

PLY is a 3D image file format. PLY (Polygon File Format or Stanford Triangle Format) standard was developed at Stanford University. It was created as a means of storing simple 3D data collected using a 3D scanning device. PLY file stores objects as a list of flat polygons that can have the following properties defined:

• Color and transparency,
• description of surface,
• Spatial coordinates.

PLY file structure

There are two versions of PLY format. The text version contains information describing all the objects in a 3D image in human-readable format. Binary version contains the same data, but compressed and encoded.

Programs which support PLY file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PLY files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with PLY 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: 04/14/2020

How to open file with PLY extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening PLY files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Polygon Model Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install quick3D

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening PLY files is that no program that can handle PLY files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install quick3D or one to the listed programs: AutoCAD, MeshLab, Mathematica. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support PLY files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading quick3D installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of quick3D

You still cannot access PLY files although quick3D is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of quick3D installed, it may not support PLY format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using quick3D.

Step 3. Assign quick3D to PLY files

After installing quick3D (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PLY files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the PLY file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where quick3D is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open PLY files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected PLY 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 PLY extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the PLY is not faulty

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

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PLY 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. PLY file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic PLY file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with PLY extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative 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 quick3D

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

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Polygon Model Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the PLY files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

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