.X_B

.X_B File Extension

Learn what a .x_b file is, what it is used for, which programs can open it, and how to convert or troubleshoot this file format.

Data File Extension Guide 179 Searches
.X_B
Parasolid Binary File

Quick Facts

Basic information about this file format

Extension
.X_B
File Type
Parasolid Binary File
Category
Data
Best first step
Use compatible software

Quick Summary

A practical overview of the .x_b file format

The .x_b file extension represents a binary file format used by the Parasolid geometric modeling kernel. Parasolid is a widely used solid modeling kernel developed by Siemens PLM Software. Files with the .x_b extension store 3D solid models and related geometric data in a compact, binary format. Th…

File extension .X_B
File type Parasolid Binary File
Category Data
Recommended action Open with a trusted compatible app

How to open a .x_b file

Start with a trusted app that supports this format

  • Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .x_b.
  • Use software that supports this file type. If one app does not work, try another compatible program for the same platform.
  • Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.
  • Scan files from unknown sources before opening them, especially documents, archives, scripts, installers, and executable files.

What is a .x_b file?

File extension details and usage information

The .x_b file extension represents a binary file format used by the Parasolid geometric modeling kernel. Parasolid is a widely used solid modeling kernel developed by Siemens PLM Software. Files with the .x_b extension store 3D solid models and related geometric data in a compact, binary format. This format is designed for efficient storage and fast loading of complex 3D models. The binary nature of the file makes it less human-readable compared to its ASCII counterpart (.x_t), but significantly reduces file size and improves performance when dealing with large and intricate designs. These files typically contain information about the geometry, topology, and attributes of the 3D model, including surfaces, curves, solids, and their relationships. They are commonly used in CAD/CAM/CAE applications for exchanging 3D model data between different software systems that support the Parasolid kernel. The .x_b format ensures data integrity and precision during the exchange process, making it a reliable choice for engineering and manufacturing workflows.

Software Compatibility

Programs that may open or work with .x_b files

Windows

Compatible applications

Siemens NX Compatible
Solid Edge Compatible
SolidWorks (with appropriate import plugins) Compatible
Autodesk Inventor (with appropriate import plugins) Compatible
Parasolid Viewer Compatible
Spatial Analyzer Compatible

macOS

Compatible applications

Siemens NX (if available for macOS) Compatible
Spatial Analyzer (if available for macOS) Compatible
Some CAD viewers with Parasolid support Compatible

Linux

Compatible applications

Siemens NX (if available for Linux) Compatible
Spatial Analyzer (if available for Linux) Compatible
Some CAD viewers with Parasolid support Compatible

Mobile

Mobile applications

eDrawings (with Parasolid support) Compatible
3D CAD Model Viewer (check for Parasolid support) Compatible

Can .x_b files be converted?

Options for saving or exporting this file to another format

In many cases, a .x_b file can be converted by opening it in compatible software and using an option such as Save As, Export, or Convert. The available output formats depend on the file type and the application used.

  • Use the original software that created the file when possible.
  • Check whether the application supports exporting to common formats.
  • Be careful with online converters when working with private, business, or sensitive files.
  • If conversion fails, the file may be corrupted, incomplete, encrypted, or not actually a .x_b file.

Why can't I open a .x_b file?

Common reasons this file type may not open correctly

Wrong software

The file may require a specific program that supports the .x_b format.

Incorrect extension

The file extension may have been renamed manually, even though the actual file format is different.

Corrupted file

The file may be incomplete, damaged during download, or transferred incorrectly.

Outdated app

Your software may need to be updated before it can open newer versions of this file format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about .x_b files

To open a .x_b file, use software that supports this file format.

  • Siemens NX
  • Solid Edge
  • SolidWorks (with appropriate import plugins)
  • Autodesk Inventor (with appropriate import plugins)
  • Parasolid Viewer

Open the file in compatible software and look for options such as Save As, Export, or Convert. If no export option is available, the file may require a specialized converter or the original application that created it.

  1. Verify that the file extension is correct.
  2. Install or update compatible software.
  3. Try another application that supports this format.
  4. Check whether the file is corrupted, incomplete, or encrypted.

A file extension alone does not guarantee whether a file is safe or unsafe. Only open files from trusted sources, scan unknown files before opening them, and be especially careful with executable, script, archive, and document files.

File safety tips

Use caution with unknown files

Only open files from trusted sources. Before opening a .x_b file, scan it with antivirus software, verify that the file extension is expected, and avoid running unknown executable, installer, macro-enabled document, or script files.