Files that contain the file extension HEX are associated with multiple programs and applications and various file types. The programs and applications include Macintosh BinHex, Intel, Hex dump, and Magellan GPS. HEX files contain data and information related to the program that created the file.
If the file extension HEX is a Macintosh BinHex file, it file is an encoded file type that contains binary-to-text encoding which is used to transmit binary files electronically and through email messages. Bin HEX files also allow for the bundling of files in a single container format for Macintosh operating systems.
HEX files that are classified as an Intel Hexadecimal Object are a data file type that allows programmers to easily define a binary object in plain text ASCII format. The ASCII format allows for the storage of files using sources other than the binary file format. In terms of Intel processors, the HEX file extension allows codes and data to be stored in Intel 8-bit processors that have a 16-bit address space.
If the HEX file extension is defined as a HEX dump file, it is a data file type that serves as a temporary file which is represented as a two digit number in your PC’s memory. HEX dump files contain hexadecimal memory from the computer’s RAM (Random Access Memory) or a file from external storage device.
If the HEX file is related to Magellan GPS, it is a data file type that contains information for upgrading the receiver in a Magellan GPS navigation system. The file is classified as a flash ROM upgrade file and is used to upgrade the software in a Magellan GPS device.
How to Open HEX Files
Since HEX files can be opened using 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. HEX files can consist of different file types including plain text, so you may already have a program which will open the file.
HEX files that are classified as a Macintosh BinHex file can be opened using a compression utility program such as Smith Micro Stuffit Deluxe, which works with Windows and Mac OS X. If you are seeking a cross-platform application, you can use UUDeview, which is an open source decoding utility available for download on the FPX website. UUDeview is compatible with Windows, Mac OS X and the Linux operating system.
If the HEX file is an Intel Hexadecimal Object, you can open it using uVision 4, which is a software development platform used to create applications using C++, macro assembler, and a HEX file generator. UVision is available on the KEIL website and is compatible with the Windows operating system.
HEX files that serve as a HEX dump file can be opened using any text editing program such as Notepad or WordPad for Windows, Apple TextEdit for Mac, or gEdit and Nano Editor for Linux.
If the HEX file extension is associated with Magellan GPS, you must open the file using the Magellan GPS navigation device. Since this type of file is necessary for updating GPS software, it must be used with the Magellan device.
