PCM is a file extension commonly associated with Pulse Code Modulation files. PCM files are supported by software applications available for devices running Linux, Mac OS, Windows. PCM file format, along with 771 other file formats, belongs to the Audio Files category. The most popular program for handling PCM files is MPlayer, but users can choose among 5 different programs that support this file format. MPlayer software was developed by The MPlayer Team, and on its official website you may find more information about PCM files or the MPlayer software program.
Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PCM files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with PCM suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.
Problems with accessing PCM may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with PCM 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.
The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening PCM files is that no program that can handle PCM files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install MPlayer or one to the listed programs: Adobe Audition, Awave Studio. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit MPlayer website and download the installer.
If the problems with opening PCM files still occur even after installing MPlayer, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of MPlayer is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why PCM files are not compatible with MPlayer. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using MPlayer.
After installing MPlayer (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PCM 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
Change the default application in Mac OS
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 PCM file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.
If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PCM 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 PCM file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.
If the PCM file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with PCM extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.
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.
If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with PCM extension. In this case close the other applications.
Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Pulse Code Modulation file. It may be the case that the PCM files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.
If you have additional information about the PCM 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 PCM file.