Files with the file extension AX are associated with multiple programs and applications and various file types. The primary application that uses AX files is DirectShow Filter, which is used by a variety of media programs for playing back video. Other programs and applications that use AX file extensions include MPEG-4 DVD and ATI DA.
If the AX file is related to DirectShow Filter, the file is a plugin file type that contains code for running media-related application functions. The code extends capabilities for a variety of video playback programs. DirectShow is a video application which replaced Video for Windows by Microsoft.
AX files that are associated with MPEG-4 DVD are a video file type that contains code which allows you to decode and encode video. This type of AX file is known as an MPEG-4 filter which provides a codec to enhance video streams that have a low bitrate.
The file extension AX created by ATI DA is a system file type that is used with ATI graphics cards drivers. The file is part of the ATI interface handler which was eventually taken over by AMD (Advanced Micro Devices) and operates on a combination of chains and phases to allow for the customization of graphics card functionality.
How to Open AX Files
Since AX files are associated with multiple programs and applications, double click on the file to see if it will automatically open in a default program you have installed on your PC. AX files can consist of different file types, so you may already have a program which will open them.
If the AX file is part of DirectShow Filter and you use Windows, you can open it using Windows Media Player or Apple QuickTime Player. You can also use any video player compatible with Windows that will accept video filters. For Mac OS X, you can use Apple QuickTime Player to open AX files on a Mac device.
If you are seeking a multiplatform application to open AX files related to DirectShow Filter, you can use VideoLAN VLC Media Player, which is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux. VLC Media Player is available as a free download on the VideoLAN website.
AX files that are associated with MPEG-4 DVD Filter can be opened using Windows Media Player in the Windows operating system. For Mac OS X, you can use Apple QuickTime Player and any media player that will support the MPEG-4 DVD Filter. If you use Linux, you can open AX files with VideoLAN VLC Media Player as described above.
AX file extensions created by ATI DA typically should never be opened due to the fact they are a system file used by your PC’s operating system. If the file becomes corrupt, it will cause other problems with the operating system, such as unexplained bluescreens, crashes, and other events.
If you find the AX file on your PC and want to know what program created it, you can right click on the file and choose Properties from the drop-down menu. In the Properties window click on the Details tab to view the information on the application associated with the AX file.
