This article explains the several formats that use the DRF file extension, plus how to open or convert each kind.

What to Know

  • Some DRF files are renders created by VIZ Render.Open one with Autodesk 3ds Max.Convert one to PDF with that same program.

What Is a DRF File?

A file with the DRF file extension is a VIZ render file, with DRF standing for Discreet Render Format. These types of files are created using the rendering application VIZ Render, which is bundled with older versions of AutoCAD Architectural software.

Some files that use this extension are Dynojet Run files, which save information about a vehicle from a diagnostics test. This data may include temperature, pressure, model data, etc.

Delphi resource files use this same file extension, but for temporary files used while building software programs in the Delphi application.

Other uses may be as a document reference files used with the Hummingbird DOCS Open software, or possibly as a Kodak raw image.

How to Open a DRF File

VIZ renders are images of things like buildings. They can be opened using Autodesk’s 3ds Max. Once opened, though, we’re pretty sure you have to save it to a different format (like MAX) instead of back to DRF.

DRF is also short for technology terms that have nothing to do with a file format, like data retention fault, dynamic receiving focus, and digital radio frequency.

Other files, like Dynojet Run files, can be opened using Dynojet’s WinPEP (previously known as Dyno Run Viewer), while Delphi resource files can be opened with Embarcadero’s Delphi.

If your file is associated with Hummingbird DOCS Open, it can be used with programs associated with OpenText, but we’re not sure of any specifics on which applications actually use this format.

If Kodak images use this extension, they’re probably supported by the same programs that support the more common DCR extension.

If your file doesn’t open with these programs, it may mean you have a completely different file that requires a different program in order for it to open. One suggestion we usually make is to open it with a text editor and see if you can find any sort of text within the file that can help you identify what program was used to create that file or what format the file is in.

How to Convert a DRF File

A DRF file may be used in a number of circumstances, so it’s best to first understand what format the file is in before you should decide how to convert it.

If you find that an application on your PC does try to open the file, but it’s the wrong application or you’d rather have another installed program open it, consult our guide on how to change file associations in Windows.

If any of the programs mentioned above are able to convert it, it’s most likely done through the File > Save As menu or something similar, like an Export menu.

For example, 3ds Max should convert via export/save to DWG, DXF, and other image formats like JPG and PDF.

However, there are some specific tools to convert DRF files if they’re Kodak photos. OnlineConverer.com is one online converter that should work with this image format to save it to JPG.

Still Can’t Open It?

Double-check that you’re not mixing up DRF with another file extension. DWF, WRF, RFD (Recogniform Form Designer), and ERF are some examples of files that have nothing to do with the formats described above even though their file extensions share some of the same letters.

DRF is an exception, but most common file formats can be converted to other formats using a free file converter tool.

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