How to Recover .PRC Files from External Hard Drives with Ease

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 .PRC file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

How to Recover .PRC Files from External Hard Drives with Ease

What is a .PRC file?

File created in the Product Representation Compact (PRC) format, which is used to represent 3D models and assemblies; contains product structure, geometry, and product manufacturing information (PMI); stores data in a highly compressed format.

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

There can be several common causes for ".PRC" files lost or failure. Some of them include:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete the ".PRC" files while organizing or cleaning up their devices.
  2. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can corrupt or delete ".PRC" files, leading to their loss or failure.
  3. Hardware or software issues: Problems with the hardware or software of the device, such as a sudden power outage or system crash, can cause ".PRC" files to become inaccessible or get corrupted.
  4. File system errors: Errors in the file system, such as a corrupted file allocation table (FAT) or a disk error, can result in the loss or failure of ".PRC" files.
  5. Improper file transfers: If ".PRC" files are not transferred correctly, for example, interrupted or incomplete transfers, it can lead to their loss or failure.
  6. Formatting or partitioning: Formatting or partitioning a storage device without proper backup can result in the loss of ".PRC" files.
  7. Software conflicts: Conflicts between different software applications or incompatible software versions can cause ".PRC" files to become inaccessible or fail to open.
  8. Human error: Mistakes made by users, such as accidentally renaming or moving ".PRC" files to an unknown location, can lead to their loss or failure.

It is always recommended to regularly backup important files, including ".PRC" files, to prevent data loss in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

How to recover lost ".PRC" 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 ".PRC" 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 ".PRC" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".PRC" 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 ".PRC" 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 ".PRC" 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 ".PRC" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo product Representation Compact File image file file?

Programs that open ".PRC" files

Windows
Adobe Acrobat DC Adobe Acrobat DC
Mac
Adobe Acrobat DC Adobe Acrobat DC

Additional Information

  • File type: Product Representation Compact File

  • File extension: .PRC

  • Developer: Adobe Systems

  • Category: 3D Image Files

  • Format: Binary

  • Mime-type: application/octet-stream

  • HEX: 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 48 42

  • ASCII: HB

  • File types that use the extension .PRC:

    • Product Representation Compact File

    • Mobipocket eBook File

    • Palm Resource Code File

    • Corel Presentation

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 14:40 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .PRC 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 are the common reasons for a .PRC file to become corrupt and require repair?

    There can be several reasons for a .PRC file to become corrupt and require repair. Some common reasons include:

    1. Software or hardware issues: Sudden system crashes, power outages, or hardware failures while working with a .PRC file can lead to corruption.
    2. Virus or malware infections: If a .PRC file gets infected by a virus or malware, it can become corrupt and inaccessible.
    3. Improper file handling: Improperly closing or force quitting an application that uses .PRC files can cause corruption.
    4. File system errors: Errors in the file system, such as bad sectors on a storage device, can result in file corruption.
    5. Incompatible software or versions: Opening a .PRC file with an incompatible or outdated software version can lead to corruption.
    6. Transfer errors: Errors during file transfer, such as interruptions or incomplete downloads, can corrupt the .PRC file.
    7. File format issues: If the .PRC file format is not recognized or supported by the application trying to open it, it can cause corruption.
    8. File compression or encryption issues: Using compression or encryption techniques on a .PRC file can sometimes introduce corruption if not handled properly.

    It is worth noting that corruption can occur due to a combination of these factors or other unforeseen circumstances.

  • What are some effective methods or tools available for repairing a corrupted .PRC file?

    There are several methods and tools available for repairing a corrupted .PRC file. Here are some effective ones:

    1. Using Palm OS Emulators: Emulators like Palm OS Emulator or Palm OS Simulator can be used to open the corrupted .PRC file. If the emulator is able to open the file without any errors, you can export it as a new .PRC file, which might fix any corruption issues.
    2. Using Palm Desktop Software: If you have the original Palm Desktop software installed on your computer, you can try to synchronize the corrupted .PRC file with your Palm device. Sometimes, the synchronization process can repair minor corruption issues in the file.
    3. Using File Repair Software: There are several specialized file repair software available that can repair corrupted .PRC files. These tools analyze the file structure, fix any errors, and recover the data. Some popular file repair tools include File Repair, File Repair Toolkit, and DataNumen File Repair.
    4. Seeking Professional Help: If the above methods don't work or if the .PRC file contains critical data, it might be best to consult a professional data recovery service. They have advanced tools and expertise to handle complex file corruption issues and recover the data from the corrupted .PRC file.

    Note: It's always recommended to create a backup of the corrupted file before attempting any repairs, as some methods might further damage the file or result in data loss.

  • Are there any precautions or best practices to follow when attempting to repair a .PRC file to avoid further data loss or complications?

    When attempting to repair a .PRC file to avoid further data loss or complications, it is important to follow some precautions and best practices:

    1. Backup the original file: Before attempting any repair, make a backup copy of the original .PRC file. This ensures that if anything goes wrong during the repair process, you can revert to the original file without losing any data.
    2. Use reliable software: Choose a reputable and reliable software tool specifically designed for repairing .PRC files. Research and read reviews to ensure the software is trustworthy and effective.
    3. Scan for malware: Before attempting any repairs, scan the .PRC file and your computer for malware or viruses. Malicious software can cause further damage or compromise your data. Use a reliable antivirus program to perform the scan.
    4. Understand the repair process: Familiarize yourself with the repair process before proceeding. Read the instructions provided by the software tool or consult any user guides or documentation available. Having a clear understanding of the repair process will help you avoid mistakes or unintended consequences.
    5. Follow instructions carefully: When using a repair tool, follow the instructions provided by the software carefully. Pay attention to any warnings or recommendations given during the repair process.
    6. Test repaired file: After the repair process is complete, test the repaired .PRC file to ensure it is functioning correctly. Open the file in the respective application or device it is intended for and verify that all the data is intact and accessible.
    7. Keep a copy of the repaired file: Once you have successfully repaired the .PRC file, make a copy of the repaired file and store it in a safe location. This ensures that you have a backup of the repaired version in case any issues arise in the future.

    Remember, it is always advisable to consult with a professional or seek expert assistance if you are unsure about the repair process or if the data in the .PRC file is critical.

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