File Extension Database

Open PED File

A file with an extension of .PED is known as a PLINK Pedigree file. It was developed by PLINK, a free, open-source whole genome association analysis toolset for genetic data. Other programs that can open PED files include OmicSoft Array Suite, Topcon Tools, and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center GLU software. But understanding how to use .PED files effectively can be confusing. This guide is meant to give you a clear understanding of the possible formats and ways you can open .PED files, how to use them, and important information to consider when dealing with .PED files.

PED Files in PLINK

PLINK is a popular software that uses PED files for whole genome association analyses. PED files offer a simple format which allows the user to manipulate genetic information more easily. PED files in PLINK consist of one line per individual with six mandatory columns and then two columns per SNP. You can download PLINK from here. For more detailed information on how to use these files in PLINK, refer to PLINK�s documentation.

PED File Usage in OmicSoft Array Suite

OmicSoft Array Suite is another platform that opens PED files. This suite is designed for analysis, visualization, and management of large-scale genomic data. To use .PED files with OmicSoft, you need to choose the 'Import PLINK data' under the 'Genotype' tab. You can download OmicSoft Array Suite here. For further instructions on how to import data into OmicSoft, consult OmicSoft�s guide.

Working with .PED Files in Topcon Tools

TOPCON Tools software provides a powerful post-processing solution, fully compatible with all Topcon survey instruments and data collectors. It uses .PED files to accommodate data from processed surveying information. Download TOPCON Tools from here. Manuals and file format guides for the software can be found here.

PED File Important Information

When working with PED files, it�s essential to remember they specifically store genetic data (particularly genotypes), and they are widely used in genetic epidemiology and bioinformatics. These files are not meant to be opened manually but are instead used directly by the programs they belong to. Depending on the software you use, PED files can have slightly different formats. Always reference the user guide or online documentation for the respective program to understand the specifics of their PED file format.

How Can I Open PED File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open PED file is to find a PED file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a PED 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 PED 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 PED file opener then try to search online for "PED viewer", "application to open PED file" or "open PED file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open PED file

How Can I Open PED File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a PED file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a PED 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 PED file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as PED file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open PED file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open PED file then try to search for "PED viewer", "application to open PED file" or "read PED file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read PED file

How Can I Open PED File on Android

If you downloaded a PED 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 PED 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 "PED".
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 "PED viewer", "PED 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 PED File on iPhone or iPad

To open PED 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 PED 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 "PED". This way you can find apps which can open PED 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 "PED viewer" or "PED file" online in your favorite search engine.

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