REF files exist as 2 different types. Please find information about each of them below.
Type 1: IDRISI Raster Image Reference File
General Information
| Title | IDRISI Raster Image Reference File |
| Extension | .ref |
| Full Form | IDRISI Raster Reference File |
| File Type | GIS Data Reference File |
| Developer | Clark Labs |
| MIME Type | application/octet-stream |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store geospatial data |
| Additional Functions | Reference raster images |
| Features | Georeferencing, Metadata |
File Characteristics
| Quality | High precision |
| Supports Layers | Yes |
| Supports Transparency | N/A |
| Editable | Yes |
Use Cases
| Environmental Analysis | Yes |
| Land Use Planning | Yes |
| Urban Development | Yes |
| Natural Resource Management | Yes |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | Low risk |
| Best Practices | Regular backups, Access control |
Historical/Version Information
| Associated With | IDRISI software versions |
| File Format Evolution | Updates with software |
Associated Types
| Complementary Extensions | .rst, .rdc, .smp |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
 IDRISI TerrSet |
Commercial | Windows |
| IDRISI Selva |
Commercial | Windows |
| IDRISI Kilimanjaro |
Commercial | Windows |
Type 2: Microsoft Train Simulator Reference File
General Information
| Title | .REF File Extension |
| Extension | .ref |
| Full Form | Reference File |
| File Type | Game File |
| Developer | Microsoft |
| MIME Type | application/octet-stream |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store references |
| Additional Functions | Map textures, paths |
File Characteristics
| Quality | Text-based |
| Supports Layers | N/A |
| Supports Transparency | N/A |
| Editable | Yes |
Use Cases
| Game Modding | Yes |
| Simulation Customization | Yes |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | Low |
| Best Practices | Validate format, Backup original |
Historical/Version Information
| Initial Release | 2001 |
| Latest Update | N/A |
Associated Types
| Related Extensions | .ace, .sms, .eng, .wag |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
 Microsoft Train Simulator |
Commercial | Windows |