ATC File Extension

ATC file icon

AutoCAD Catalog Format

  • File Type atc
  • Developer Autodesk
  • Popularity
    4.7 (40 votes)
  • Application AutoCAD
  • Category Settings Files
  • Format Binary

What is a ATC file?

Files with the ATC extension are specifically tied to AutoCAD Catalog Format, a Settings Files type, and there are 1190 files in this category.

Autodesk, the developer of the AutoCAD Catalog Format (ATC), has released file format and 45 programs designed to handle them.

ATC files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and Mac OS. There are 2 programs available to open a ATC file, including popular tools like AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT.

Programs that support ATC files

How to open a ATC file?

If you are having trouble opening a ATC file, it usually means the right software is not installed. Choose a program from the list that matches your operating system. Next, visit the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it on your device.

AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT are among the most widely used programs for handling ATC files. To set up the newest version of AutoCAD on your device, simply go to the official Autodesk website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.

Once setup is done, your operating system should assign AutoCAD as the default app for ATC files.

Set AutoCAD as the default ATC program

Change Default Program on Mac

  1. Right click or Control + left click on the desired ATC file;
  2. Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
  3. Scroll down to the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, "Recommended Programs" will be selected;
  4. In this menu, choose "All Programs" and navigate to AutoCAD. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.

Change default programs in Windows

  1. To get started, right-click your ATC file, then choose "Open With" and select "Choose Another Application" from the context menu;
  2. In the pop-up window, select the AutoCAD application;
  3. Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening ATC files.

Solve problems with ATC files

If you encounter issues with ATC files, don’t worry—most can be fixed with minor software adjustments. Refer to the troubleshooting tips below.

What are the steps to repair a damaged ATC file?

Start a data recovery program and open the damaged ATC file. Then, choose the "Repair" option from the menu. Please wait patiently for the recovery process to finish as it will automatically repair the damaged settings files.

How can I determine if my ATC file is damaged?

The signs of corrupted ATC settings files can manifest as:

  • Trying to work with the archive in AutoCAD or other programs causes instability or program crashes;
  • Error notifications appear during file manipulation;
  • The file does not open correctly or displays error messages;
  • An unexplained increase in the size of the ATC file;
  • The file shows slow performance when edited in AutoCAD;

What are the reasons behind AutoCAD crash?

Insufficient software updates are a likely cause of AutoCAD crashes. Be sure to install the latest updates for Autodesk products.

Restarting your computer will solve many common problems, which is why it’s the first thing you should do before changing any settings related to the software.

How to edit a ATC file?

To modify ATC files, it is necessary to install dedicated software that lets you open and edit settings files. Online ATC editors generally offer fewer tools compared to programs designed for AutoCAD Catalog Format.

Best ATC editors 2026

Following these criteria, we have put together a list of recommended ATC editors.

ATC Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
AutoCADAutodeskWindows, Mac OS4.4 out of 5 (37 reviews)
AutoCAD LTAutodeskWindows4.3 out of 5 (40 reviews)