PHO File Extension
Gerber Photoplot Format
- File Type pho
- Developer Ucamco
- Popularity
- Application Altium Designer
- Category CAD, CAM and CAE Files
- Format Binary
What is a PHO file?
Gerber Photoplot Format, identified by the PHO extension, is a CAD, CAM and CAE Files type and includes 148 files.
PHO file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows. When working with PHO files, you can rely on 2 programs, including Altium Designer and ViewMate Pro.
How to open a PHO file?
If you can’t open a PHO file, it is usually because the necessary software is missing. To resolve the issue, select the right program from the list for your operating system. Then go to the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it.
When it comes to opening and working with PHO files, Altium Designer and ViewMate Pro are the top choices for users. To install the updated version of Altium Designer, simply go to the Altium Limited site and download the installer compatible with all major platforms.
Once the process is complete, Altium Designer should take over as the default application for PHO files.
Set Altium Designer as the default PHO program
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Right-click on your PHO file, then choose the "Open with" option and select "Choose another application" from the available options;
- In the pop-up window, select the Altium Designer application;
- Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening PHO files.
Change Default Program on Mac
- Right click or Control + left click on the desired PHO file;
- Select "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 Altium Designer. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
Solve problems with PHO files
Rest assured, any issues with PHO files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.
Why does Altium Designer stop responding or crash intermittently?
Altium Designer crashes can be caused by outdated software. Keep your Altium Limited products up to date by installing the latest updates.
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.
What are the best practices for repairing a PHO file that has gone bad?
Use a data recovery program to open the damaged PHO file and from the menu choose "Repair" function to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged cad, cam and cae files.
What are the warning signs that my PHO file may be corrupted?
Common indications of damaged PHO cad, cam and cae files are:
- Error messages appear during the course of working with the file;
- Editing the archive in Altium Designer results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
- Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the PHO file;
- Opening the file in Altium Designer or other programs causes them to hang or crash;
How to edit a PHO file?
To edit PHO files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the cad, cam and cae files. Online PHO editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for Gerber Photoplot Format.
List of Top PHO editors 2026
Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of PHO editors you can use.
| PHO Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altium Designer | Altium Limited | Windows | 4.5 out of 5 (42 reviews) |
Convert to and from PHO
If obstacles arise while working with a PHO file, you may convert it to formats like GBP, G or other similar types for smoother handling.
Keep in mind that converting a PHO file may introduce some limitations, but the original format can often be restored.