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Basic information about ZGL file

When there is a problem with opening files with the file extension ZGL（*.ZGL or *.zgl）, 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 ZGL file yourself.

There are 1 file types using the ZGL file extension in our database. In the further part of this page, you will find detail information about all the ZGL file with their brief description and a list of programs that support ZGL file sorted by operating systems. The table below provides useful information about the ZGL file extension. It answers questions such as:
  • What is the ZGL file?
  • How to open a ZGL file?
  • What programs do I need to open a ZGL file?
  • What programs help to create and edit a ZGL file?
  • How to convert ZGL files to another file format?
  • How to convert another files to ZGL file format?


1.Detail information about ZGL file extension: Compressed XGL 3D CAD Model

File type Compressed XGL 3D CAD Model Category 3D Image Files
Developer N/A File format N/A
Description ZGL file is a Compressed XGL 3D CAD Model. The zgl file extension is associated with the XGL 3D CAD model file format supported by various 3D graphics applications.

The zgl file stores compressed 3D models in XML OpenGL API text format.

The ZGL format is a compressed version of the XGL file format.

The XGL file format is an old 1990s and early 2000s 3D file format developed by RealityWave Corp. for their 3D server & viewing products. The company and file format was folded in AVEVA Corp.

A few CAD programs were designed during this time period to export XGL and ZGL files for viewing within the RealityWave software, such as Solid Edge. ZGL is the most efficient file format to convert from AVEVA PDMS software (using their 'rvm2zgl.exe' program).
Software programs that will open, edit or convert ZGL files

Windows		 AVEVA PDMS
Myriad CAD Viewer
3D-Tool
AccuTrans 3D
PolyTrans|CAD+DCC
AVEVA PDMS
AccuTrans 3D



Can't open a ZGL 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.ZGL”。

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 ZGL extension without any issue.


Where I can download the application that support ZGL 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 ZGL 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 ZGL file?

The reasons for the lack of the ability to open a ZGL 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 ZGL file. If there is still something wrong, you might want to check:

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

If the ZGL 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.