.OFM File Extension
OmniForm Form
| Developer | Nuance Communications |
| Popularity | |
| Category | Data Files |
| Format | .OFM |
| Cross Platform | Update Soon |
What is an OFM file?
.OFM files are associated with OziExplorer Map Files, primarily used in navigation and mapping software. These files contain raster map data, GPS waypoints, routes, and tracks, all organized to facilitate navigation and exploration. The .OFM format enables users to store detailed maps and related data for various geographical regions, aiding in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and off-road driving.
More Information.
.OFM files were designed to serve as a convenient way to store map data for use with OziExplorer software. The primary purpose was to enable users to create, customize, and share detailed maps for outdoor activities, such as hiking, hunting, and geocaching. Over time, the format evolved to accommodate additional features and improvements in mapping technology, ensuring compatibility with newer versions of the software and enhancing user experience.
Origin Of This File.
.OFM files are closely tied to the OziExplorer software, which was developed by Des Newman in the late 1990s. The software gained popularity among outdoor enthusiasts due to its user-friendly interface and robust features for GPS navigation and mapping. As a result, .OFM files became a standard format for storing map data within the OziExplorer ecosystem.
File Structure Technical Specification.
.OFM files typically consist of raster map images in formats like PNG, BMP, or TIFF, along with metadata such as GPS coordinates, waypoints, routes, and tracks. The structure of these files may vary depending on the specific version of OziExplorer and any customizations made by the user. However, they generally adhere to a standardized format that allows the software to interpret and display the map data accurately.
How to Convert the File?
Windows
Converting .OFM files on Windows can be achieved through various methods:
- Using OziExplorer: Open the .OFM file in OziExplorer and then export the map data to a compatible format like GPX or KML, which can be used in other mapping applications or devices.
- Third-Party Conversion Software: Look for third-party software that supports converting .OFM files to other formats. Some software tools may offer batch conversion options for efficiently converting multiple files at once.
- Online Conversion Services: Explore online services that specialize in file conversion. While these may be less common for .OFM files, they may offer conversion capabilities for a variety of formats.
Linux
Converting .OFM files on Linux may require a bit more effort due to limited native support for OziExplorer.
However, you can try the following methods:
- Wine: Use Wine, a compatibility layer for running Windows applications on Linux, to install and run OziExplorer. Once OziExplorer is running, you can convert .OFM files using the methods mentioned for Windows.
- Alternative Mapping Software: Explore Linux-compatible mapping software that supports importing .OFM files or offers conversion options to export data in other formats.
Mac
Converting .OFM files on Mac can be done through similar methods as Windows, albeit with some additional steps:
- Wine or Virtualization: Similar to Linux, use Wine or virtualization software like Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion to run OziExplorer on your Mac. Once OziExplorer is running, follow the conversion methods outlined for Windows.
- Alternative Mapping Applications: Look for macOS-compatible mapping applications that support .OFM file conversion or offer importing capabilities for further manipulation.
Android
Converting .OFM files on Android devices involves utilizing apps that support file conversion or alternative mapping applications:
- OziExplorer for Android: If available, use OziExplorer for Android to open .OFM files directly on your Android device. The app may also offer export options to convert map data into other formats.
- Third-Party Apps: Explore third-party apps on the Google Play Store that support .OFM file conversion or offer importing capabilities for further use.
iOS
Converting .OFM files on iOS devices follows a similar process to Android, with a focus on compatible apps:
- OziExplorer for iOS: If available, use OziExplorer for iOS to open .OFM files directly on your iOS device. The app may provide options to export map data into alternative formats.
- Third-Party Apps: Search for iOS apps on the App Store that support .OFM file conversion or offer importing capabilities for use on your device.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Highly customizable maps tailored to specific user needs.
- Integration with GPS devices for real-time navigation.
- Offline accessibility, allowing users to navigate without an internet connection.
- Support for various map projections and coordinate systems.
Disadvantages:
- Limited compatibility with other mapping software or devices.
- Reliance on proprietary software for creating and editing .OFM files.
- File size limitations due to the inclusion of raster map images.
- Potential for inaccuracies or outdated information in user-generated maps.
How to Open OFM?
Open In Windows
Use OziExplorer software to open .OFM files.
Open In Linux
Open .OFM files using Wine to run OziExplorer or consider alternative mapping software compatible with Linux.
Open In MAC
Utilize Wine or virtualization software to run OziExplorer on macOS, or explore macOS-compatible mapping applications.
Open In Android
Transfer .OFM files to Android devices and open them using OziExplorer for Android or other compatible mapping apps.
Open In IOS
Transfer .OFM files to iOS devices and open them using OziExplorer for iOS or compatible mapping apps.
Open in Others
Compatibility with other platforms may vary, but users can explore emulation or virtualization options to run OziExplorer or seek alternative mapping solutions.
