File Extension Database

Open TARGA File

TARGA (also known as TGA) emphasizes Targa Image File. It's a raster graphics format, the brainchild of Truevision Inc. This format was primarily introduced for their top-of-the-line graphic cards available in professional video editing systems back in the late 80s.

Using TARGA Files in Image Editing

Software like Adobe's Photoshop and Illustrator, GIMP, and Corel's PaintShop Pro are typical examples of design software that supports TARGA files. These software provide exclusive support to handle TARGA file's capabilities such as alpha channel and lossless data compression. These features allow professionals to maintain the accuracy of the image while keeping the size minimal.

Integration of TARGA Files in 3D Animation

The TARGA format is very famous in the 3D animation sector. Advanced applications such as Autodesk's 3ds Max and Blender often use TARGA files. The images can be easily integrated as textures and decals in 3D environments. Its robustness in delivering high-quality results makes TARGA a preferred option in this field.

Implementing TARGA Files in Video Games

Renowned video game engines such as Unreal Engine and Unity support TARGA files for textures, creating 2D animations, and interface elements. Owing to the TARGA's format's flexibility and wide range of color depth support, the gaming industry frequently opt for this format.

TARGA File Important Information

While TARGA documents serve various uses and functionalities across different platforms, it is important to retain the file's integrity as altering its extension could pose complications and irreversible damages. Tools and software regarding viewing and manipulating TARGA files are widely available. Opting for a software update is always suggested to allow consistent compatibility handling TARGA files.

Typical TARGA application file locations:

C:\Program Files (x86)\QuickTime\PictureViewer.exe "%1"

Frequently used application names to open TARGA files:

QuickTime

Frequently associated Windows objects:

QuickTime.targa

How Can I Open TARGA File on Windows

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

How Can I Open TARGA File on Mac OS

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

How Can I Open TARGA File on Android

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

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

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