.IGC File Extension
Anime List Builder Input File
| Developer | IGC |
| Popularity | |
| Category | Data Files |
| Format | .IGC |
| Cross Platform | Update Soon |
What is an IGC file?
The .IGC file extension represents a specialized format, primarily used in the aviation sector, particularly in gliding. It serves as a standard data format for recording and storing flight data.
The importance of .IGC files lie in their ability to provide comprehensive flight information, which is crucial for flight analysis, replay, and verification purposes.
More Information.
Introduced in the late 20th century, the .IGC file format emerged in response to the growing need for a standardized digital format to record flight data.
Its purpose was centered around flight verification for competition scoring and record claims. Its usage expanded to include flight training, safety analysis, and recreational flight tracking.
Origin Of This File.
The International Gliding Commission (IGC), a component of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), developed the .IGC file format.
The primary motivation behind its creation was to establish a universal standard for recording and analyzing glider flight data, ensuring consistency and reliability across the sport.
File Structure Technical Specification.
The .IGC file format is characterized by its ASCII text-based structure, making it both human-readable and machine-readable.
It consists of a series of lines, each representing different types of data:
- Header Section: Contains metadata about the flight, pilot, glider, and GPS receiver.
- Fix Records: Present the actual flight data, including timestamps, latitude, longitude, altitude, and more.
- Task Declaration: Details any pre-defined flight tasks or routes.
- Event and Comment Records: Include annotations and additional information not covered by other record types.
- Security Section: Features a digital signature to verify the data’s integrity.
The specification of .IGC files ensure that they contain detailed flight trajectories, including three-dimensional movement and time stamps.
How to Convert the File?
Converting .IGC files to other formats can be essential for various purposes, such as data analysis, sharing, or visualization. Here’s a detailed guide on how to convert these files:
Using Online Conversion Tools
- Find an Online Converter: Search for online services that can convert .IGC files to your desired format (e.g., CSV, KML, GPX).
- Upload the .IGC File: Use the upload option on the website to select and upload your .IGC file.
- Choose Output Format: Select the format you want to convert the .IGC file into.
- Convert and Download: Initiate the conversion process and then download the converted file once it’s ready.
Using Specialized Software
- Download Conversion Software: There are specific applications available for aviation data analysis that can convert .IGC files, such as SeeYou, GPSDump, or IGC Flight Replay.
- Install and Open the Software: After downloading, install and launch the application.
- Import .IGC File: Look for an option to open or import the .IGC file into the software.
- Export in Desired Format: Once the file is imported, find the export option and select your preferred file format for conversion.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Standardization: Offers a consistent format recognized globally in the gliding community.
- Data Integrity: The inclusion of digital signatures ensures the authenticity of the flight data.
- Versatility: Useful for a variety of purposes, from competition scoring to flight analysis and safety reviews.
Disadvantages:
- Limited Scope: Primarily designed for gliding, limiting its applicability in other aviation sectors.
- Data Complexity: While ASCII is text-based, the detailed data can be overwhelming for non-specialists.
- Software Dependency: Requires specific software for in-depth analysis and visualization.
How to Open IGC?
Open In Windows
- SeeYou: A popular choice for analyzing flight data. Install SeeYou, then open the .IGC file directly through the software.
- GPSDump: Useful for both converting and viewing .IGC files. Install GPSDump, and use it to open and view the contents of the file.
Open In Linux
- XCSoar: An open-source software perfect for Linux users. Install XCSoar from the Linux repository, then use it to open .IGC files.
- LK8000: Another open-source option available for Linux. After installation, it can directly open and analyze .IGC files.
Open In MAC
- SeeYou for Mac: Install the macOS version of SeeYou to view and analyze .IGC files.
- Paragliding Flight Browser: An alternative for macOS users, suitable for opening and visualizing .IGC files.
Open In Android
- XCSoar Mobile: Available on the Google Play Store, this app can open and display .IGC files on Android devices.
- LK8000 Mobile: Also available for Android, offering similar functionalities as the desktop version.
Open In IOS
- iGlide: An app designed for iOS, perfect for opening and analyzing .IGC files on iPhones and iPads.
- XCSoar for iOS: Offers similar functionalities as its Android counterpart, suitable for opening .IGC files on iOS devices.
