CH3 File Extension

CH3 file icon

Harvard Graphics DOS Chart Format

What is a CH3 file?

The CH3 extension is related to Harvard Graphics DOS Chart Format and is classified in the Graphics Files category, which contains 556 files.

Harvard Graphics, the developer of the Harvard Graphics DOS Chart Format (CH3), has released file format and programs designed to handle them.

CH3 file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows. There are 2 programs available to open a CH3 file, including popular tools like Harvard Graphics ChartXL and Corel Presentations.

Programs that support CH3 files

How to open a CH3 file?

If you are having trouble opening a CH3 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.

Thanks to their popularity, Harvard Graphics ChartXL and Corel Presentations are often the go-to programs for managing CH3 files. If you want the most recent release of Harvard Graphics ChartXL, head over to the Harvard Graphics site and download the version designed to run on all platforms.

After completing the installation, CH3 files should be recognized by the system and linked to Harvard Graphics ChartXL.

Set Harvard Graphics ChartXL as your default CH3 viewer

Set default app to open files on Mac

  1. Right-click or Control + left-click on the desired CH3 file to open a menu of available actions;
  2. Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
  3. In the lower section of the window, you’ll find the "Enable" menu, with "Recommended Programs" pre-selected as the default option;
  4. Select "All Programs" in this menu, and then search for Harvard Graphics ChartXL. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.

Change a default app in Windows

  1. To get started, right-click your CH3 file, then choose "Open With" and select "Choose Another Application" from the context menu;
  2. From the list of applications in the pop-up window, find and select Harvard Graphics ChartXL as your desired application;
  3. Check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to set your chosen app as the default for opening CH3 files.

Solving Common CH3 File Challenges

While CH3 files can sometimes present difficulties, most problems can be resolved quickly with minor software modifications. Check the tips below to help solve them.

What Causes Harvard Graphics ChartXL to Crash Frequently?

Insufficient software updates are a likely cause of Harvard Graphics ChartXL crashes. Be sure to install the latest updates for Harvard Graphics products.

A simple restart of your computer can often fix many common problems, which is why it is the recommended first step before making any adjustments to your software settings.

How can I restore a damaged CH3 file?

Start a data recovery program and open the damaged CH3 file. Then, choose the "Repair" option from the menu. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged graphics files.

How can I determine if my CH3 file is damaged?

Characteristics of corrupted CH3 graphics files can include:

  • Harvard Graphics ChartXL or other programs stop responding or crash when trying to handle the file;
  • Error notifications appear during file manipulation;
  • When opening the file, errors occur or the inability to access its contents;
  • Unexplained CH3 file size inflation;
  • Editing the archive in Harvard Graphics ChartXL is hampered by poor overall performance;

How to edit a CH3 file?

To modify CH3 files, you need to install special software that makes it possible to open and edit graphics files. Online CH3 editors are more restricted compared to software designed for Harvard Graphics DOS Chart Format.

Best CH3 Editor Software in 2026

Taking the above factors into account, we have selected a list of CH3 editors currently available.

CH3 Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Harvard Graphics ChartXLHarvard GraphicsWindows4.6 out of 5 (45 reviews)