ECW files exist as 2 different types. Please find information about each of them below.
Type 1: Enhanced Compression Wavelet Image
General Information
| Title | ECW File Extension |
| Extension | .ecw |
| Full Form | Enhanced Compression Wavelet Image |
| File Type | Raster Image File |
| Developer | ERDAS |
| MIME Type | image/ecw |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store imagery |
| Additional Functions | Geo-referencing, Image compression |
| Features | High compression, Lossy |
File Characteristics
| Quality | High resolution |
| Supports Layers | No |
| Supports Transparency | No |
| Editable | Yes, with software |
Use Cases
| GIS Mapping | Yes |
| Satellite Imagery | Yes |
| Aerial Photography | Yes |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | Limited, Non-executable |
| Best Practices | Validate source, Software updates |
Historical/Version Information
| Initial Release | Mid-1990s |
| Latest Version | Varies by software |
Associated Types
| Similar Extensions | .jpeg2000, .sid, .tiff |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
 ERDAS IMAGINE |
Paid | Windows |
 GDAL |
Free | Cross-platform |
 QGIS |
Free | Cross-platform |
Type 2: EclipseCrossword Word List File
Crossword puzzle files have EclipseCrossword logos. Word list files have a red A icon. Double-click either to open in EclipseCrossword. A word list is words and clues to use when making puzzles. You c...
General Information
| Title | ECW File Extension |
| Extension | .ecw |
| Full Form | EclipseCrossword Word List File |
| File Type | Game File |
| Developer | Green Eclipse |
| MIME Type | application/x-crossword |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store word lists |
| Additional Functions | Facilitate crossword creation |
| Features | Text-based, Simple structure |
File Characteristics
| Quality | Plain text |
| Supports Layers | No |
| Supports Transparency | No |
| Editable | Yes |
Use Cases
| Educational Tools | Yes |
| Word Games | Yes |
| Printable Puzzles | Yes |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | Low |
| Best Practices | Regular backups |
Historical/Version Information
| Initial Release | 2000 |
| Latest Version | Variable (software updates) |
Associated Types
| Similar Extensions | .puz, .xwd, .cw |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| EclipseCrossword |
Free | Windows |