Four Easy Ways to Open PGM Files

The scenario: You have a file with the PGM file extension on your computer that you need to open. You double-click it as usual, expecting for a program to load it up, but sadly nothing happens. You try it again, but still nothing happens. What can you do? Try these four easy methods to open a troublesome PGM file.

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1st Method: Open it in another program.

When you double-click PGM files, your computer attempts to open it in a program associated with PGM files. If there’s no program associated with PGM files on your computer, the file won’t open. To open the file, download one of the most popular programs associated with PGM files such as CGI Program, MegaBasic Apple II Program File, or RS7000 OS Image.

2nd Method: Take a hint from the file type.

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The PGM file extension usually indicates it's under the umbrella of Raster Image Files. However, if it’s another file type, it might not open with one of the programs listed above. Take the following steps to find the file type:

  1. Right-click the file.
  2. Click “Properties” (Windows) or “More Info” (Mac).
  3. Locate the file type under either “Type of File” (Windows) or “Kind” (Mac).

3rd Method: Check with the developer.

So you’ve tried using a different program, you’ve confirmed the file type, and your PGM file still won’t open. Even if these methods were unsuccessful, you might still be able to reach out to a software developer for help. Use the chart below to find the developer for each of the programs mentioned above and contact them directly for assistance.

Software Developed By
CGI Program Windows Software
MegaBasic Apple II Program File Windows Software
RS7000 OS Image Yahama Corporation
Opentech Digital STB Main Software Opentech Inc.
Signature Program Microsoft Programmer
Portable Graymap Graphic Windows Programmer
Chromeleon Batch Program Windows Software
BASIC Program Microsoft Programmer

4th Method: Open it in a universal file viewer.

If the developer isn’t able to help, a universal file viewer probably can. File Magic (Download) and similar programs are designed to open a wide variety of file formats, including PGM files. Some aren’t compatible and will only open in binary. Download File Magic now to open you PGM and hundreds of other file types with one program!

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