.C3D File Extension

C3D files exist as 2 different types. Please find information about each of them below.

Type 1: Coordinate 3D File

The C3D file format stores raw data from 3D collection. Each data collection is a single trial of coordinates and analog samples. The file has a parameter section describing data properties. Early C3D...

General Information

Title C3D File Extension
Extension .c3d
Full Form Coordinate 3D File
File Type 3D Data File
Developer Various
MIME Type application/octet-stream

File Function

Primary Function Store motion-capture data
Additional Functions Biomechanics analysis, Gait analysis
Features Binary format, Standardized

File Characteristics

Quality High precision
Supports Layers No
Supports Transparency No
Editable With compatible software

Use Cases

Medical Research Yes
Sports Analysis Yes
Animation For character rigging

Security and Practices

Security Risks Low risk
Best Practices Regular backups, Software updates

Historical/Version Information

Initial Release 1980s
Latest Version Varies by software

Associated Types

Similar Extensions .bvh, .fbx, .dae

Software Compatibility

Software Usage Policy OS Compatibility
Qualisys Track Manager Paid Windows
Vicon Nexus Paid Windows
MotionBuilder Paid Windows

Type 2: C3D Model File

The C3D format allows flexible and extensible data storage. It was designed for biomechanics data storage. Users can store custom parameters in addition to standard ones and raw data. The format enabl...

General Information

Title C3D Model File
Extension .c3d
Full Form Coordinate 3D File
File Type 3D Model File
Developer Various
MIME Type application/octet-stream

File Function

Primary Function Store 3D data
Additional Functions Motion capture data
Features Binary format, Coordinate data

File Characteristics

Quality High precision
Supports Layers No
Supports Transparency No
Editable Yes

Use Cases

Motion Capture Yes
Biomechanical Analysis Yes
Sports Science Yes
Gait Analysis Yes

Security and Practices

Security Risks Low
Best Practices Regular updates, Data verification

Historical/Version Information

Initial Release Varies
Latest Version Dependent on software

Associated Types

Similar Extensions .bvh, .fbx, .mb

Software Compatibility

Software Usage Policy OS Compatibility
Autodesk MotionBuilder Paid Windows
Qualisys Track Manager Paid Windows
Vicon Nexus Paid Windows