.MDL File Extension
MathWorks Simulink Model
Developer | MathWorks |
Popularity |
4.2 | 304 Votes |
What is an MDL file?
An MDL file is a simulation model created using Simulink, a simulation and model-based design application. It contains the block diagram and block properties of a simulation.
More Information
MDL files are saved in a plain text format and typically include a list of objects. Each object contains a set of properties and values that are delimited by line breaks.
NOTE: The MDL format was replaced by the .SLX model format with the release of Simulink 2012.
How to open an MDL file
You can open an MDL file in MathWorks Simulink. If you do not have MathWorks Simulink, you can open an MDL file using any text editor, including:
If you cannot open an MDL file in MathWorks Simulink, you can try changing the file's extension to SLX. This will usually allow you to open the file in Simulink.
Programs that open MDL files
Warcraft 3 3D Model Text File
Developer | Blizzard Entertainment |
Popularity |
4.2 | 56 Votes |
An MDL file may also be a model file used by Warcraft III, a real-time strategy game developed by Blizzard Entertainment. It stores a 3D model, including objects, meshes, and textures for buildings and units. MDL files allow text-based editing of model properties before generating a binary .MDX file used by Warcraft III.
More Information
MDL files use a nested structure to create model properties. For example, a material element may include a layer property which in turn defines a transparent property for the layer.
NOTE: MDL files are the text version of MDX 3D model binary files. They can be converted to the MDX format using the MDLX Converter program. From there, you can use several modeling tools to edit the model.
Programs that open or reference MDL files
Half-Life Model File
Developer | Valve |
Popularity |
4.1 | 63 Votes |
An MDL file may also be a three-dimensional model used for characters and creatures in the Half-Life video game. It is created using polygons and texture mapping for detail. MDL models can be seen from different views (wireframe, flatshaded, smoothshaded, and textured) using the Half-Life Model Viewer.
More Information
NOTE: QC files are actually used by Valve's Source game engine, so they are not restricted to Half-Life models.
Programs that open or reference MDL files
Flight Simulator Airplane Model
Developer | N/A |
Popularity |
3.8 | 25 Votes |
An MDL file may also be a three-dimensional model of an airplane or other aircraft used by Microsoft Flight Simulator. MDL is a standard model format used by multiple versions of the Flight Simulator series.
Programs that open MDL files
Rational Rose Model File
Developer | IBM |
Popularity |
3.7 | 24 Votes |
An MDL file may also be a diagram or model created by Rational Rose software. It is used for modeling software architecture and design, and creating business models that improve predictability and productivity.
Programs that open MDL files
DigiTrakker Module
Developer | Prodatron |
Popularity |
3.0 | 16 Votes |
An MDL file may also be an audio tracking module file saved in the DigiTrakker Module (MDL) format, a proprietary format used by the Prodatron DigiTrakker audio application. It contains sequences, note patterns, and sound samples that represent different instruments played back based on the notes. MDL files also store metadata about the module, including the version.
More Information
Prodatron developed DigiTrakker and released it in 1995 for MS-DOS. Its MDL format is one of many module formats audio tracker developers released in the 1990s based on the .MOD Amiga Module format introduced in 1987.
The last version of Digitrakker was 3.2. Prodatron discontinued the software in January 1997, but you may still encounter MDL files created by music enthusiasts using the original application or a third-party application that supports the MDL format.
How to open an MDL file
You can open an MDL file with OpenMPT in Windows by selecting File → Open.... MODPlug Player (Windows) and CocoModX (macOS) also support MDL files but are discontinued.
How to convert an MDL file
Programs that open MDL files
Lectra Modaris Clothing Design File
Developer | Lectra |
Popularity |
2.7 | 18 Votes |
An MDL file may also be a CAD file created by Lectra Modaris, a clothing design application. It saves the "cutter's must" list (or direction card) as well as the geometry for the pieces of the garment. MDL files are used for saving new fashion design's in men's, women's, and children's clothing.
More Information
When a design is complete, it can be sent to a machine cutter that cuts the designed patterns in a roll of fabric or another material.
Programs that open MDL files
Luigi's Mansion 3D Model File
Developer | Nintendo |
Popularity |
2.6 | 19 Votes |
An MDL file may also be a model file used by Luigi's Mansion, a Nintendo GameCube game. It stores 3D model data for characters, including Luigi, and objects that appear in the game.