What Is an X_T File?

This article explains what an X_T file is and how to open one on your computer.

What Is an X_T File?

A file with the X_T file extension is a Parasolid model part file. They're also known as Modeller Transmit files.

Different CAD programs can export to, and import from, the X_T format. The files are text-based and composed essentially of numbers, which some CAD programs can read to identify the 3D model's geometry, color, and other details.

Parasolid model parts stored in binary are saved with the X_B file extension. Older versions of the X_T format were XMT_TXT and XMP_TXT.

How to Open an X_T File

X_T files can be opened with Siemens PLM Software called Parasolid. It works on Windows, Linux, and Mac computers.

Some other CAD programs that can use this file include Autodesk Fusion 360, VectorWorks, SolidView's Parasolid Viewer, Kubotek's KeyCreator, Actify, and 3D-Tool.

You can also open one with Notepad in Windows or with any other free text editor, but these programs are only useful if you need to see the header data of the X_T file. This information includes the date the file was created, the OS used, and some information about the model.

Since the X_T file extension is a little different from most extensions (because of the underscore), it might be used in other programs, too, ones that have nothing to do with 3D shapes. If your file doesn't open with any of the CAD programs mentioned above, try using it with a text editor to see if there's any descriptive information within the file itself that can point you in the direction of a compatible viewer.

How to Convert an X_T File

Any X_T file should be able to be converted to another similar format using one of the viewers listed above. In most programs, this is via a File > Save as option or sometimes a button labeled Export.

Another option is to use the trial version of CAD Exchanger. It can convert X_T to STEP/STP, IGES/IGS, STL, SAT, BREP, XML, JT, OBJ, X_B, XMT_TXT, XMT_BIN, WRL, or X3D.

Autodesk Inventor should be able to convert one to DWG through the Environment > AEC Exchange > Save as DWG Solids menu. You can then open your converted X_T file in a program that supports the DWG format, like Autodesk's AutoCAD, Design Review, or DWG TrueView programs.

Still Can't Open It?

The programs mentioned above are all you need to choose from to open an X_T file. If it doesn't open even after trying them, chances are you don't have an X_T file. This might be the case if you've misread the file extension.

For example, even though their extensions look similar, X_T files have nothing to do with Mozilla Firefox component files that use the .XPT extension. Other examples could be given, too, like compressed text files that use the TX_ suffix.

Re-read the file extension at the end of your file and then research what you see to find a compatible file opener or converter.