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Basic information about REF file

When there is a problem with opening files with the file extension REF（*.REF or *.ref）, you do not need a computer expert. In most cases, using the helpful suggestions of experts contained in our website as well as appropriate programs, you can solve the problem with the REF file yourself.

There are 2 file types using the REF file extension in our database. In the further part of this page, you will find detail information about all the REF file with their brief description and a list of programs that support REF file sorted by operating systems. The table below provides useful information about the REF file extension. It answers questions such as:
  • What is the REF file?
  • How to open a REF file?
  • What programs do I need to open a REF file?
  • What programs help to create and edit a REF file?
  • How to convert REF files to another file format?
  • How to convert another files to REF file format?


1.Detail information about REF file extension: Microsoft Train Simulator Reference File

File type Microsoft Train Simulator Reference File Category Data Files
Developer Microsoft File format Text
Description REF file is a Microsoft Train Simulator Reference File developed by Microsoft. File used by Microsoft Train Simulator, a program used to simulate trains and play the role of locomotive engineer or passenger; contains a reference to shape file settings, including the .S shape filename, shadow properties, class, alignment, and description.
Software programs that will open, edit or convert REF files

Windows		 Microsoft Train Simulator


2.Detail information about REF file extension: IDRISI Raster Image Reference File

File type IDRISI Raster Image Reference File Category GIS Files
Developer Clark Labs File format N/A
Description REF file is a IDRISI Raster Image Reference File developed by Clark Labs.
Software programs that will open, edit or convert REF files

Windows		 Clark Labs TerrSet
GDAL

Linux		 GDAL



Can't open a REF file?

When you click a file to open it, operating system examines the filename extension. If operating system recognizes the filename extension, it opens the file in the program that is associated with that filename extension. When operating system does not recognize a filename extension, you receive the following message:

”Can't open this file: example.REF”。

To open this file, you install one of the applications from the list of software programs that you found here, you should be able to open, edit or convert the file with the REF extension without any issue.


Where I can download the application that support REF file?

If you do not know where you can download the application from our list, click on the link (which is the name of the program), you will find more information there on the location where to download the required application. Most often they are the websites of software manufacturers.


How to change file associations?

  • Right-click a file with the extension whose association you want to change, and then click "Open With".
  • In the "Open With" dialog box, click the program whith which you want the file to open, or click "Browse" to locate the program that you want.
  • Select the ”Always use the selected program to open this kind of file” check box.


Can I change the extension of REF files?

Changing the filename extension of a file is not a good idea. When you change a file's extension, you change the way programs on your computer read/open the file. The problem is, changing the file extension does not change the file format. Select a software program from our list and install it on your computer. If the file has not opened correctly, you have to look for a different software program from our list. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.


What else may cause problems width open a REF file?

The reasons for the lack of the ability to open a REF file on your computer may be at least several. The easiest thing is to find a suitable application installed on your computer, which will open a REF file. If there is still something wrong, you might want to check:

  • Whether the REF file is damaged.
  • Whether the REF file is incorrectly linked in the registry entries.
  • Whether the REF file extension has been accidentally removed from the Windows registry.
  • Whether the installation of an application that supports the REF file format is incompletely.
  • Whether the REF file is infected.
  • Whether the drivers of the equipment used for opening a REF file are up to date.
  • Whether your computer has enough hardware resources to open a REF file.

If the REF file still not working with your software after eliminating the above shortcomings? That means that the problem is more complex and requires the help of a specialist.