bic

.bicBar Code

ESRI · 1980s

Developer
ESRI
Category
GIS & Maps
MIME Type
image/x-bic
First Released
1980s
Open Format
No
File Signature
Not publicly documented, specific to ESRI's internal structure.
At a Glance
.bic
Bar Code

.bic files are used by ESRI GIS software to store specialized vector graphics, often representing barcodes or structured patterns in maps.

Reviewed on August 6, 2026
Compression
Binary
Transparency
N/A
Editability
Low
Best for
ESRI GIS data

Key Features

  • Stores specialized vector graphic data.
  • Primarily used within ESRI GIS applications.
  • Designed for encoding information within geographic maps.
  • Proprietary binary format.

Best For

  • ESRI software users needing to embed coded linear graphics.
  • Professionals in GIS who work with spatial data encoding.
  • Creating maps with integrated, non-standard symbology.

Less Ideal For

  • General image storage (use JPG, PNG).
  • Vector graphics for web or general design (use SVG, AI).
  • Storing general barcode images (use standard barcode formats).
  • Cross-platform GIS data exchange (use Shapefile, GeoJSON).

Common Use Cases

  • Representing unique identifiers or codes on maps.
  • Integrating barcode-like symbology into GIS projects.
  • Data storage for specific ESRI mapping modules.
  • Spatial analysis involving encoded features.

How to Open It

  1. Open .bic files using ESRI's ArcGIS Pro or ArcMap software.
  2. Import the .bic data into a GIS project for visualization.
  3. Consult ESRI documentation for specific import or manipulation tools.
  4. Note: Direct opening as a standalone image is not typically supported.

What is a .bic file?

The .bic file extension is primarily associated with ESRI (Environmental Systems Research Institute) software, often used in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). These files typically store vector graphic data, specifically related to barcodes or similar structured line patterns within a geographic context. They are part of a larger ecosystem of ESRI file formats used for mapping and spatial analysis. While not a common consumer file type, .bic files are crucial for professionals working with specific GIS datasets and applications.

Programs That Open .bic Files

PlatformProgram
WindowsArcGIS ProPaidOfficial
ArcMapPaidOfficial
macOSArcGIS ProPaidOfficial

How to Convert .bic Files

FormatMethod
.SVGExport from ArcGIS, Conversion tools
.PNGExport from ArcGIS, Screenshot

Common Problems with .bic Files

⚠️ .bic file not opening.
Ensure you have ESRI ArcGIS software installed and that the file is correctly linked or imported into a project.
⚠️ Cannot find software to open .bic files.
This is a proprietary ESRI format; dedicated GIS software from ESRI is usually required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is .bic a common file format?

No, .bic is a specialized format primarily used within the ESRI Geographic Information System (GIS) software ecosystem.

Can I open a .bic file with a standard image viewer?

Generally, no. Standard image viewers do not support this proprietary GIS vector format. You need specific ESRI software.

What kind of data does a .bic file contain?

It typically stores vector graphic data, often used for representing linear patterns or barcodes within a geographic map context.

Technical Details

A .bic file is a proprietary binary format used by ESRI's ArcObjects and related GIS applications. It contains structured vector data, enabling the representation of linear features that can encode information, much like a barcode. The exact internal structure is not publicly documented but is designed for efficient rendering and spatial querying within the ESRI environment.

Did You Know?

The 'bic' in the file extension likely stands for 'barcode' or 'business intelligence component' within the context of ESRI's extensive file format library.
While not a general-purpose format, .bic files demonstrate how GIS software can integrate specialized graphical elements for data encoding and representation.

Security Information

As a proprietary binary format from a trusted software developer (ESRI), .bic files are generally considered safe. However, always exercise caution when opening files from unknown sources, as with any file type.