File Extension Database

Open ECG File

ECG file extensions are used for a variety of purposes, primarily in the medical and healthcare fields. These files store electrocardiogram data, which is essential for monitoring and evaluating a patient's heart's electrical activity. In this article, we will explore the different formats and ways to open and use ECG files, as well as provide helpful resources for doing so.

ECG File Formats

ECG files come in various formats, such as DICOM, SCP-ECG, and XML-based ECG. Each format has its unique set of specifications and attributes designed to store and portray ECG data accurately and efficiently. Let's examine these formats in more detail.

DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine)

DICOM is a standard used for medical imaging, which includes ECG data. This format allows for the storage and transmission of ECG data along with a patient's other medical imaging files. DICOM ECG files can be opened and analyzed by various medical imaging applications, which adhere to the DICOM standard.

SCP-ECG (Standard Communications Protocol for Computer-assisted Electrocardiography)

SCP-ECG is a format used specifically for the storage and communication of ECG data. Created by the European Society of Cardiology, the SCP-ECG format works as a common standard for different ECG devices and software. To open and use SCP-ECG files, you will need ECG-specific software that supports this format.

XML-based ECG

XML-based ECG formats use XML (eXtensible Markup Language) to store ECG data. These files can be created and manipulated by various XML-based ECG software, making them easily accessible and editable. Some commonly used XML-based ECG formats include the HL7 Annotated ECG and ECG-ML.

Opening and Using ECG Files

To open and use ECG files, you will need specific ECG software or a medical imaging application that supports the DICOM, SCP-ECG, or XML-based ECG formats. Some popular software options include:

OsiriX: A DICOM viewer that can handle medical imaging files, including ECGs.
Waveform ECG: An open-source ECG software that supports DICOM, SCP-ECG, and various XML-based ECG formats.
EPU Reader: A free application designed for viewing and analyzing SCP-ECG files.
Philips DICOM Viewer: A free tool to view DICOM and ECG medical imaging files.

Once you have an ECG viewer, you must follow the instructions specific to the software to open and analyze the ECG files. Typically, these applications provide tools for measuring and monitoring the different components of the ECG waveform and can export the data in various formats to create reports for further analysis.

ECG File Important Information

ECG file extensions are critical for accurately representing and exchanging valuable patient data between different medical devices and software. When handling ECG files, ensure that you use compatible and reliable ECG software to maintain data integrity. Moreover, keeping up-to-date with advancements in ECG file formats and software aids in efficient and accurate analysis, ultimately leading to better patient care.

How Can I Open ECG File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open ECG file is to find a ECG file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a ECG file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open ECG file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as ECG file opener then try to search online for "ECG viewer", "application to open ECG file" or "open ECG file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open ECG file

How Can I Open ECG File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a ECG file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a ECG file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with ECG file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as ECG file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open ECG file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open ECG file then try to search for "ECG viewer", "application to open ECG file" or "read ECG file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read ECG file

How Can I Open ECG File on Android

If you downloaded a ECG file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded ECG file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "ECG".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "ECG viewer", "ECG file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open ECG File on iPhone or iPad

To open ECG File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the ECG file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "ECG". This way you can find apps which can open ECG files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "ECG viewer" or "ECG file" online in your favorite search engine.

Populating this website with information and maintaining it is an ongoing process. We always welcome feedback and questions that can be submitted by visiting Contact Us page. However since there are many users visiting this website and because our team is quite small we may not be able to follow up personally on every request. Thank you for your understanding.