SHX File Extension
AutoCAD Compiled Shape Format
- File Type shx
- Developer Autodesk
- Popularity
- Application AutoCAD
- Category CAD, CAM and CAE Files
- Format Binary
What is a SHX file?
AutoCAD Compiled Shape Format, identified by the SHX extension, is a CAD, CAM and CAE Files type and includes 148 files.
With the creation of the AutoCAD Compiled Shape Format (SHX), Autodesk introduced file format along with 45 programs built for their use.
SHX files are supported by Windows and Mac OS. You can view a SHX file using one of 2 programs, for example AutoCAD and DWG TrueView.
File Signature
HEX code: 41 75 74 6F 43 41 44 2D 38 36 20 73 68 61 70 65 73. ASCII code: AutoCAD-86 shapes 1..
How to open a SHX file?
The most common reason why a SHX file cannot be opened is the absence of required software. To fix this, select a compatible program from the list. Then visit the official developer website via the provided link, download the program, and install it on your system.
The most popular programs for working with SHX files are AutoCAD and DWG TrueView. To get the latest version of AutoCAD, open the Autodesk website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.
Once setup is done, your operating system should assign AutoCAD as the default app for SHX files.
Make AutoCAD the default SHX viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your SHX file and selecting the "Open With" option. From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- Inside the popup window, scroll through the list of applications and specifically choose AutoCAD as the application to associate with your SHX file;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK".
Change the default app to open files on Mac
- Right click or use Control + Left Click on the desired SHX file to access a dropdown menu of actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Scroll down to the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, "Recommended Programs" will be selected;
- 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.
How to edit a SHX file?
To edit SHX files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify cad, cam and cae files. Online SHX editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for AutoCAD Compiled Shape Format.
List of Top SHX editors 2026
Following these criteria, we have put together a list of recommended SHX editors.
| SHX Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| AutoCAD | Autodesk | Windows, Mac OS | 4.4 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
Finding answers to SHX file problems
If you encounter issues with SHX files, don’t worry—most can be fixed with minor software adjustments. Refer to the troubleshooting tips below.
What are the signs that my SHX file is damaged?
Corrupted SHX cad, cam and cae files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Poor performance when editing a file in AutoCAD;
- Opening or processing the file in AutoCAD or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the SHX file;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;
Why does AutoCAD quit or crash unexpectedly?
AutoCAD crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Autodesk products.
A computer restart is often the key to solving numerous common problems. That’s why, it is recommended to restart the computer before making any changes to the software settings.
What methods can be used to repair a damaged SHX file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged SHX file and navigate to the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged cad, cam and cae files.