CAL File Extension
3ds Max Pose Adjustment Format
- File Type cal
- Developer Autodesk
- Popularity
- Application Adobe Photoshop
- Category Raster Image Files
What is a CAL file?
Files with the CAL extension are specifically tied to 3ds Max Pose Adjustment Format, a Raster Image Files type, and there are 575 files in this category.
Autodesk, the developer of the 3ds Max Pose Adjustment Format (CAL), has released file format and 45 programs designed to handle them.
CAL files are compatible with various operating systems, including Linux, Windows and Mac OS. There are 6 programs available to view a CAL file, including popular tools like XnView, Adobe Photoshop and Canvas.
MIME types
- image/x-cals
Programs that support CAL files
How to open a CAL file?
If you are having trouble opening a CAL 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.
XnView, Adobe Photoshop and Canvas are among the most widely used programs for handling CAL files. To set up the newest version of Adobe Photoshop on your device, simply go to the official Adobe website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.
Once the process is complete, Adobe Photoshop should take over as the default application for CAL files.
Set Adobe Photoshop as the default CAL handler
Choose an app to open a file on Mac
- Right click or use Control + left click on the desired CAL file to launch the file options menu;
- Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
- At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
- Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Adobe Photoshop. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
Change default programs in Windows
- To get started, right-click your CAL file, then choose "Open With" and select "Choose Another Application" from the context menu;
- In the pop-up window, find and select the Adobe Photoshop application from the available options;
- Make sure the "Always use this app" checkbox is checked and click "OK" to confirm your choice as the default app for opening CAL files.
How to edit a CAL file?
To modify CAL files, it is necessary to install dedicated software that lets you open and edit raster image files. Online CAL editors generally offer fewer tools compared to programs designed for 3ds Max Pose Adjustment Format.
Best CAL editors 2026
Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of CAL editors you can use.
| CAL Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| CorelDraw Graphics Suite | Corel | Windows | 4.7 out of 5 (38 reviews) |
| Canvas | ACD Systems | Windows | 4.6 out of 5 (41 review) |
| Corel Presentations | Corel | Windows | 4.6 out of 5 (53 reviews) |
| Adobe Photoshop | Adobe | Windows, Mac OS | 4.3 out of 5 (54 reviews) |
| PaintShop Pro | Corel | Windows | 4.2 out of 5 (47 reviews) |
Convert files to and from CAL
If you struggle with a CAL file, consider converting it to alternative formats such as DXF, DWG, GIF, PNG, TIF or other similar file types.
It is important to understand that converting a CAL file might limit certain functions, but this conversion is usually reversible.
Offline software, including Corel Presentations, allows smooth conversion of CAL files while preserving original quality.
Convert CAL to other file formats
Effective solutions for CAL file problems
Rest assured, any issues with CAL files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.
What are the steps to repair a damaged CAL file?
Start a data recovery program and open the damaged CAL 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 raster image files.
How can I determine if my CAL file is damaged?
The signs of corrupted CAL raster image files can manifest as:
- Trying to work with the archive in Adobe Photoshop 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 CAL file;
- The file shows slow performance when edited in Adobe Photoshop;
What are the reasons behind Adobe Photoshop crash?
Insufficient software updates are a likely cause of Adobe Photoshop crashes. Be sure to install the latest updates for Adobe products.
Restarting your computer can resolve numerous common problems, so it should be the initial step before changing any software-related settings.