.917 — Autodesk DWF (Design Web Format) Binary
Autodesk · 1996
A compressed binary file format for sharing 2D and 3D design data, primarily from Autodesk applications.
Key Features
- Optimized for efficient distribution of design data.
- Supports both 2D and 3D CAD information.
- Includes capabilities for markups and annotations.
- Proprietary Autodesk format for viewing and collaboration.
Best For
- Distributing CAD files without specialized software.
- Collaborative review sessions with non-CAD users.
- Reducing file sizes for large design projects.
- Including markups and comments directly within the design file.
Less Ideal For
- Directly editing CAD designs (use native formats like DWG).
- High-fidelity photorealistic rendering.
- General document sharing (use PDF).
- Animations or complex interactive simulations.
Common Use Cases
- Sharing architectural blueprints for review.
- Distributing 3D mechanical designs to manufacturing partners.
- Collaborative annotation and markup of engineering drawings.
- Archiving project designs for long-term access.
How to Open It
- Download and install Autodesk Design Review, a free viewer.
- Use Autodesk's AutoCAD or other compatible CAD software.
- Explore third-party DWF viewers available for various operating systems.
- Consider converting the .917 file to a more universally accessible format like PDF or image if direct viewing is not possible.
What is a .917 file?
The .917 file extension is commonly associated with Autodesk's Design Web Format (DWF), a format designed for efficient sharing and viewing of design and engineering data. It is particularly useful for distributing large or complex 2D and 3D design files without requiring the recipient to have the original authoring software. DWF files can contain drawings, markups, and metadata, making them suitable for collaborative workflows and project reviews in industries like architecture, engineering, and construction. While it aims for broad accessibility, it remains proprietary to Autodesk's ecosystem.
Programs That Open .917 Files
| Platform | Program | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | Autodesk Design Review | Free | Official |
| Autodesk AutoCAD | Paid | Official | |
| macOS | Autodesk DWG TrueView (limited DWF support) | Free | Official |
| Web Browser | Autodesk Viewer | Free | Official |
How to Convert .917 Files
| Format | Method |
|---|---|
| Autodesk Design Review, Autodesk AutoCAD, Online converters | |
| .PNG | Autodesk Design Review, Screenshot tools |
Common Problems with .917 Files
Frequently Asked Questions
It's used to efficiently share and view 2D and 3D design data, often from CAD applications, in a compact format suitable for collaboration and review.
Direct editing of .917 files is generally not possible, as it's primarily a viewing and distribution format. Editing should be done in the original CAD software (e.g., DWG).
While both are used for sharing documents, .917 is specific to CAD and design data, whereas PDF is a general-purpose document format. DWF files can be converted to PDF for broader accessibility.
Technical Details
DWF (Design Web Format) is a proprietary file format developed by Autodesk for the efficient distribution and viewing of design data. The .917 variant typically represents a compressed, binary version of the DWF format, optimizing file size for web transfer and storage. It supports both 2D vector graphics and 3D models, along with associated metadata and markup capabilities. Its structure is designed for rapid rendering and interrogation by viewers.