Open POV File

The POV file extension is primarily linked to the Persistence of Vision Raytracer, a high-quality tool used to create three-dimensional graphics. The software offers a scene description language that perfectly allows end-users to script, render and animate image scenes.

Persistence of Vision Raytracer (POVRay)

The Persistence of Vision Raytracer or POVRay is the most commonly used software that works with .POV files. These files contain scripts written in a scene description language. The scripts define objects, light, and surface finish, among other elements, for creating 3D graphics.

How to Open POV Files

Any text editing software can be used to open and alter a .POV file as they are ASCII text files. However, to interpret and render the file contents into a 3D image, one needs to use the POVRay application.

NewTek's LightWave 3D

Another application that uses the POV file extension is NewTek's LightWave 3D. In LightWave, the POV file extension stands for 'Plain Old Vertices'. These are used to implement geometry data like vertices and polygons of a 3D model, which can be exported from LightWave for use in other 3D modeling software.

Other Software

InRoads® Suite is another program which uses the POV format. However, it uses the file differently, linking it to Project Preferences files. These store settings used across different sessions. Changes made in a project will also affect its related .POV files.

POV File Important Information

Just because the POV file extension is widely associated with the POVRay software does not mean that all .POV files can be opened or edited with this tool. Always check the source software of your file before attempting to open it. If in doubt, use a universal file viewer like File Magic to open your .POV file.