.hex

Intel HEX File

File Extension Details

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What is a .hex file?

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The Intel HEX file format is a widely used ASCII text file format for conveying binary data, primarily for programming microcontrollers, EPROMs, and other programmable devices. It represents binary data in a human-readable hexadecimal format. Each line in a HEX file represents a record, which contains information such as the starting address for the data, the number of data bytes, the actual data bytes in hexadecimal representation, and a checksum to ensure data integrity. The format is designed to be simple to parse and generate, making it suitable for transferring data between different development tools and programming devices. HEX files are commonly used in embedded systems development for storing firmware, configuration data, and other types of binary information. The format allows for specifying memory addresses, enabling precise placement of data within the target device's memory space. Different record types within the HEX file allow for specifying the start address, end of file, and extended address information, supporting memory spaces larger than 64KB. The checksum ensures that the data has not been corrupted during transmission or storage. The simplicity and widespread support make the Intel HEX format a reliable choice for programming embedded systems.

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Software Compatibility

Programs that can open and work with .hex files

Windows

Compatible Applications

Intel HEXedit
Compatible
HxD
Compatible
Notepad++ with HEX-Editor plugin
Compatible
MiniHex
Compatible
Various microcontroller IDEs (e.g., Keil uVision, IAR Embedded Workbench)
Compatible

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macOS

Compatible Applications

Hex Fiend
Compatible
BBEdit
Compatible
0xED
Compatible
Various microcontroller IDEs (e.g., Keil uVision, IAR Embedded Workbench)
Compatible

Linux

Compatible Applications

Okteta
Compatible
Ghex
Compatible
Bless
Compatible
Various microcontroller IDEs (e.g., Eclipse with embedded development plugins)
Compatible

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Mobile

Mobile Applications

Hex Editor (Android)
Compatible
iHex (iOS - limited functionality)
Compatible

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Alternative File Formats

Similar formats you might consider

Alternative format for .hex files
Alternative format for .hex files
Alternative format for .hex files
Alternative format for .hex files

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Frequently Asked Questions

About .hex files

To open a .hex file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

  • Intel HEXedit
  • HxD
  • Hex Fiend
  • Okteta
  • Hex Editor (Android)

Check the 'Software Compatibility' section above for a complete list of programs that can open .hex files on different operating systems.

To convert a .hex file to another format, you can:

  1. Use compatible software Many programs that open .hex files also allow you to save or export them to different formats. For example, you might try using Intel HEXedit , Hex Fiend. ...
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert allow you to convert files between different formats without installing software.
  3. Convert to recommended alternatives: For .hex files, consider converting them to .BIN, .SREC, .ELF which may be better supported by various applications.
  4. Specialized conversion tools: Search for '.hex converter' to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

Note: File conversion may result in loss of formatting, quality, or features depending on format compatibility.

If you're having trouble opening a .hex file, try these troubleshooting steps:

  1. Verify the file extension is correct: Sometimes files are incorrectly named. Make sure the file is actually a .hex file.
  2. Update your software: Ensure you're using the latest version of your chosen program.
  3. Try alternative software: If one program doesn't work, try another from our compatibility list.
  4. Check for file corruption: The file might be damaged. Try getting a fresh copy if possible.
  5. Look for file converters: Converting to a more common format might be helpful.

Like any file type, .hex files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

  • From trusted sources: Files from reputable websites, colleagues, or friends are generally safe.
  • From unknown sources: Exercise caution with files from unknown websites or emails.

Security Recommendations:

  • Always scan files with antivirus software before opening
  • Keep your operating system and applications updated.
  • Be especially cautious with executable file types

Common issues with .hex files include:

  • Compatibility Issues: Older or newer software versions may not fully support certain .hex files
  • Missing Components: Fonts, media, or other components may not transfer properly between systems.
  • File Corruption: Incomplete downloads or transfer errors can damage files.
  • Format Variations: Different software may implement the .hex format in slightly different ways.

If you encounter issues with a specific .hex file, you may need to:

  • Try opening it with different software.
  • Ask the file creator to save it in a different format
  • Look for software-specific patches or updates.

Chat with AI about .hex files

💡 Suggested Questions

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