VICAR File Extension
VICAR Graphics
- File Type vicar
- Developer NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
- Popularity
- Application WINVICAR
- Category Graphics Files
- Format Binary
What is a VICAR file?
VICAR Graphics, identified by the VICAR extension, is a Graphics Files type and includes 556 files.
VICAR file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. If you need to open a VICAR file, you can use one of 3 programs, such as WINVICAR, XnView and Picture Resize Genius.
Programs that support VICAR files
How to open a VICAR file?
If you’re having difficulty opening a VICAR file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.
When it comes to opening and working with VICAR files, WINVICAR, XnView and Picture Resize Genius are the top choices for users. If you need the newest version of WINVICAR, just access the Open Channel website. From there you can download the installer compatible with all systems.
Following installation, VICAR files should be automatically opened with WINVICAR.
Set WINVICAR as the default VICAR program
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Right-click your VICAR file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
- In the pop-up window, select the WINVICAR application;
- Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening VICAR files.
Change Default Program on Mac
- Right click or Control + left click on the desired VICAR file;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Look at the bottom of the window, where you will see the "Enable" menu. "Recommended Programs" will be selected as the default option;
- Within this menu select "All Programs" and navigate to WINVICAR. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.
How to edit a VICAR file?
To edit VICAR files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the graphics files. Online VICAR editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for VICAR Graphics.
List of Top VICAR editors 2026
Taking into account the provided details, we have prepared a list of VICAR editors that match your needs.
| VICAR Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| WINVICAR | Open Channel | Windows | 4.7 out of 5 (46 reviews) |
Solve problems with VICAR files
When issues arise with VICAR files, they can generally be fixed with small software tweaks. Use the troubleshooting tips below to help resolve them.
What can lead to sudden WINVICAR crashes?
WINVICAR crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for Open Channel 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.
What is the recommended approach to repair a damaged VICAR file?
Open the damaged VICAR file with a recovery program, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged graphics files.
What are the telltale signs of a corrupt VICAR file?
Common indications of damaged VICAR graphics files are:
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the VICAR file;
- Opening the file in WINVICAR or other programs causes them to hang or crash;
- Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
- While working with the file, error messages appear;
- Editing the archive in WINVICAR results in slow or unresponsive behavior;