A Full Guide to Restoring .PLY Files from a Broken External Hard Drive

Have files been deleted due to a user’s error or software error? Have you formatted a disk by accident and need to know how to recover the files? Read our .PLY file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

A Full Guide to Restoring .PLY Files from a Broken External Hard Drive
Data Recovery Tool

What is a .PLY file?

Music file created by Finale music notation software; saves audio data for sheet music that can be played back in the software; used for playing musical compositions.

What Are Common Causes of ".PLY" Files Lost or Failure?

There are several common causes for ".PLY" file loss or failure:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete ".PLY" files while organizing or cleaning up their computer system.
  2. File system corruption: Issues with the file system, such as disk errors or malware infections, can lead to the loss or corruption of ".PLY" files.
  3. Hardware failure: Hard drive failures, power outages, or other hardware issues can result in the loss of ".PLY" files.
  4. Software or application errors: Errors or bugs in the software or application used to create or manipulate ".PLY" files can cause data loss or file corruption.
  5. Operating system issues: Problems with the operating system, such as crashes, updates, or compatibility issues, can lead to ".PLY" file loss or failure.
  6. Improper file transfer: If ".PLY" files are not transferred correctly or interrupted during the process, they may become corrupted or lost.
  7. Human error: Mistakes made by users, such as accidental formatting of storage devices or improper handling of files, can result in ".PLY" file loss.
  8. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can infect and damage ".PLY" files, making them inaccessible or corrupting their data.

To minimize the risk of ".PLY" file loss, it is recommended to regularly backup important files, use reliable storage devices, keep software and applications up to date, and maintain a good antivirus program.

How to recover lost ".PLY" files?

Sometimes while working with a computer, laptop or other stationary or mobile devices, you may encounter various bugs, freezes, hardware or software failures, even in spite of regular updates and junk cleaning. As a result, an important ".PLY" file may be deleted.

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🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

By no means should you think that the only way to recover a ".PLY" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".PLY" files if a file was lost after accidental or deliberate deleting, formatting the memory card or the internal storage, cleaning the storage device, after a virus attack or a system failure.

Programs to recover ".PLY" files

Looking for a way to get files back? In cases when files were deleted and they cannot be restored by using standard operating system tools, use Hetman Partition Recovery.

Partition Recovery™ 4.9
The tool recovers data from any devices, regardless of the cause of data loss.
Download

Follow the directions below:

  1. Download Hetman Partition Recovery, install and start the program.

  2. The program will automatically scan the computer and display all hard disks and removable drives connected to it, as well as physical and local disks.

    File Recovery Software

  3. Double-click on the disk from which you need to recover ".PLY" files, and select analysis type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Analysis Type

  4. When the scanning is over, you will be shown the files for recovery.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Files that Can be Restored

  5. To find a file you need, use the program’s interface to open the folder it was deleted from, or go to the folder "Content-Aware Analysis" and select the required file type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Deep Scan

  6. Select the files you have been looking for and click "Recovery".

    File Recovery Software - Files List for Recovery

  7. Choose one of the methods for saving the files and recover them.

    Saving recovered files in Hetman Partition Recovery

How to open file with ".PLY" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo finale Playback File image file file?

Programs that open ".PLY" files

Windows
MakeMusic Finale MakeMusic Finale
Mac
MakeMusic Finale MakeMusic Finale

Additional Information

  • File type: Finale Playback File

  • File extension: .PLY

  • Developer: MakeMusic

  • Category: Audio Files

  • Format: N/A

  • Mime-type: application/octet-stream

  • HEX: 70 6C 79 0A

  • ASCII: ply

  • File types that use the extension .PLY:

    • Finale Playback File

    • Polygon Model File

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 15:18 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .PLY files after deleting, cleaning or formatting!
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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What is a .PLY file format and what is its significance in computer graphics?

    A .PLY (Polygon File Format) is a file format commonly used to store 3D geometric data, primarily for computer graphics applications. It was developed by the Stanford University Computer Graphics Laboratory as an open format to represent 3D models.

    The significance of the .PLY file format in computer graphics lies in its simplicity and versatility. It is a straightforward format that can store various types of information related to 3D models, including vertex positions, colors, normals, texture coordinates, and face connectivity. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications such as 3D modeling, visualization, simulation, and rendering.

    Additionally, the .PLY format supports both ASCII and binary encoding, allowing for efficient storage and transmission of large and complex 3D data. It is widely supported by various software and libraries in the computer graphics community, making it a popular choice for exchanging and sharing 3D models among different applications and platforms.

  • How can I open a .PLY file on my computer and what software or tools are commonly used for this purpose?

    To open a .PLY file on your computer, you can use various software or tools. Here are a few commonly used options:

    1. MeshLab: MeshLab is a free and open-source software that supports various 3D file formats, including .PLY. It provides a range of tools for viewing, editing, and analyzing 3D models.
    2. Blender: Blender is a powerful 3D modeling and animation software that can open .PLY files. It offers a comprehensive set of features for creating, editing, and rendering 3D models.
    3. AutoCAD: AutoCAD is a popular software used for 2D and 3D design. It supports the .PLY format and can be used to view and edit these files.
    4. CloudCompare: CloudCompare is a free and open-source software primarily used for point cloud and mesh processing. It can open .PLY files and offers various visualization and analysis tools.
    5. MeshLabNet: MeshLabNet is an online version of MeshLab, which allows you to upload and view .PLY files directly in your web browser without installing any software.
    6. 3D viewers: There are several 3D viewer applications available, such as 3D Viewer by Microsoft or 3D Viewer by Open Source. These viewers often support the .PLY format and provide basic viewing capabilities.

    Remember to check the documentation or help files of the specific software you choose for instructions on how to open and work with .PLY files.

  • Are there any specific considerations or limitations when working with .PLY files, and what are the potential applications or industries where this file format is commonly used?

    When working with .PLY files, there are a few considerations and limitations to keep in mind:

    1. File Size: PLY files can become large in size, especially when dealing with complex and detailed 3D models. This can impact the processing time and memory requirements for loading or manipulating the data.
    2. Limited Geometry Types: PLY files primarily support triangle meshes. While some variations of the format allow for other geometry types like lines or points, the most common usage is for triangular meshes.
    3. Lack of Standardization: PLY files do not have a strict standard, which means there can be variations in how data is stored and interpreted. It is essential to carefully understand the specific structure and organization of the data in each PLY file.
    4. No Built-in Compression: PLY files do not have built-in compression methods. If file size is a concern, additional compression techniques, such as using external tools or converting to other formats, may be necessary.

    PLY files find applications in various industries and fields, including:

    1. 3D Scanning: PLY is a common file format used in 3D scanning technologies like LiDAR or structured light scanning. It allows for the storage and exchange of detailed 3D scanned data.
    2. Computer Graphics and Visualization: PLY files are frequently used in computer graphics and visualization applications. They can represent 3D models of objects, scenes, or characters for rendering, simulation, or virtual reality purposes.
    3. Reverse Engineering: PLY files are useful in reverse engineering processes where physical objects or surfaces are scanned and converted into digital 3D models. These models can then be further analyzed or modified.
    4. Cultural Heritage Preservation: PLY files are employed in the preservation and documentation of cultural heritage sites, artifacts, or artworks. They help create accurate digital replicas for archiving, research, and restoration purposes.
    5. Medical Imaging: PLY files can store 3D models derived from medical imaging techniques like CT scans or MRI. They are used in medical research, surgical planning, or educational purposes.
    6. Manufacturing and Engineering: PLY files can be used in industries like automotive, aerospace, or product design, where 3D models are utilized for prototyping, analysis, or documentation.

    It's important to note that while PLY files have widespread usage, other file formats like OBJ, STL, or FBX are also commonly employed in similar applications.
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