PNM File Extension

What is PNM file?

PNM filename suffix is mostly used for Portable Any Map Image files. PNM files are supported by software applications available for devices running Linux, Mac OS, Windows. PNM file format, along with 522 other file formats, belongs to the Raster Image Files category. The most popular program for handling PNM files is ImageMagick, but users can choose among 14 different programs that support this file format. On the official website of ImageMagick Studio LLC developer not only will you find detailed information about theImageMagick software, but also about PNM and other supported file formats.

Programs which support PNM file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with PNM files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with PNM suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with PNM extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening PNM files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with PNM extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install ImageMagick

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports PNM files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install ImageMagick or one to the listed programs: Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, XnView. 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 ImageMagick installed is by going to developer’s website (ImageMagick Studio LLC) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update ImageMagick to the latest version

You still cannot access PNM files although ImageMagick 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. The reason that ImageMagick cannot handle files with PNM may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of ImageMagick should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open PNM files to ImageMagick

If you have the latest version of ImageMagick installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage PNM on your device. 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 PNM 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
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the ImageMagick installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open PNM files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected PNM file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with PNM extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the PNM is not faulty

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 PNM file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the PNM file for viruses or malware

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

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

If you obtained the problematic PNM file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with PNM 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.

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Portable Any Map Image file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run ImageMagick

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support PNM files. Close all running programs and try opening the PNM file.

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Portable Any Map Image 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 PNM files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the PNM file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on PNM file.