.STEP File Extension
What is an STEP file?
A STEP file is a 3D model file formatted in STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product Data), an ISO standard exchange format. It contains three-dimensional model data saved in a text format recognized by multiple computer-assisted design (CAD) programs.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) developed the STEP format to make it easier to share models between users with different CAD systems in the CAD industry. Since its release in 1994, STEP has become a standardized, widely-supported format that CAD users can use to save and transfer models between users and programs.
While STEP files appear as 3D models in CAD programs, they consist of plain text that describes a model's structure. The text that STEP files contain is written in an ASCII format that conforms to the STEP Application Protocols ISO 10303-2xx.
NOTE: STEP model files often use the .STP file extension.
How to open an STEP file
You can open a STEP file in a variety of CAD programs, including Autodesk Fusion 360 (cross-platform), IMSI TurboCAD (Windows, Mac), FreeCAD (cross-platform), and Dassault Systemes CATIA (Windows, Linux).
For example, to open a STEP file in Autodesk Fusion 360:
- Select from the program's menu bar
- When the Open window appears, select
- Navigate to and open your STEP file
Opening an STEP file with a text editor
Since STEP files are saved in plain text, you can open a STEP file with a text editor, such as Microsoft Notepad or Apple TextEdit. You can view the model's data and metadata, including its original file name, creation date, and the application that created the file.
When opened in a text editor or source code editor, you can modify the properties of the STEP file. However, if you incorrectly edit the file, you may inadvertently corrupt the file.
How to convert an STEP file
Various CAD applications, including Autodesk Fusion 360, Dassault Systemes SolidWorks, and IMSI TurboCAD, can convert STEP files to other formats.
For example, Autodesk Fusion 360 can convert STEP files to various file types, including the following formats:
- .OBJ - Wavefront 3D Object
- .3MF - 3D Manufacturing File
- .ASM - Pro/ENGINEER Assembly File
- .DWG - AutoCAD Drawing
- .DXF - Drawing Exchange Format
- .IGES - IGES Drawing File
- .STL - Stereolithography File
- .FBX - Autodesk FBX Interchange File
- .F3D - Fusion 360 Archive
- .USD - Universal Scene Description Format