Complete Guide to Recovering .RFA Files from Formatted Devices

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

Complete Guide to Recovering .RFA Files from Formatted Devices
Data Recovery Tool

What is a .RFA file?

Data file that can be loaded into a project created with Revit, a building information modeling (BIM) program; contains one or more 3D models that can be imported into a 3D scene; may be created and saved using the Revit Family Editor.

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

There can be several common causes for ".RFA" file loss or failure. Some of them include:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users might accidentally delete ".RFA" files while cleaning up their computer or organizing files.
  2. File system corruption: Issues with the file system, such as corruption or errors, can lead to the loss or failure of ".RFA" files.
  3. Software or hardware issues: Problems with the software or hardware used to create, open, or save ".RFA" files can result in their loss or failure. This can include software crashes, power outages, or hardware failures.
  4. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can infect and damage ".RFA" files, making them inaccessible or corrupt.
  5. Incompatible software or versions: Using incompatible software versions or trying to open ".RFA" files with software that does not support them can lead to file failure or loss.
  6. Improper file handling: Improper handling of ".RFA" files, such as forceful shutdowns or abrupt removal of storage devices, can cause data corruption or loss.
  7. Human error: Accidental overwriting, formatting, or modification of ".RFA" files can result in their loss or failure.
  8. Storage media issues: Problems with the storage media where ".RFA" files are stored, such as hard drive failures, bad sectors, or physical damage, can lead to file loss or failure.

It is essential to regularly back up ".RFA" files to prevent data loss and take precautionary measures to avoid the above causes.

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

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

Looking for how to open a stereo revit Family File image file file?

Programs that open ".RFA" files

Windows
Autodesk AutoCAD Architecture Autodesk AutoCAD Architecture
Autodesk Revit Structure Autodesk Revit Structure
Autodesk MEP Autodesk MEP

Additional Information

  • File type: Revit Family File

  • File extension: .RFA

  • Developer: Autodesk

  • Category: Data Files

  • Format: N/A

  • File types that use the extension .RFA:

    • Revit Family File

    • Battlefield 1942 Game Package

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We will be happy to answer your questions!

Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 13:51 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .RFA 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 some common reasons why .RFA files may have trouble opening, and how can these issues be resolved?

    There are several common reasons why .RFA (Revit Family) files may have trouble opening, and here are some potential issues and their possible resolutions:

    1. Incompatible Software Version: The .RFA file might have been created using a different version of Autodesk Revit software than the one you are using. In such cases, you can try opening the file in a compatible version of Revit or use the "Save As" function in the original version to save it in a compatible format.
    2. Corrupted File: The .RFA file may be corrupted, which can occur due to various reasons such as incomplete downloads, file transfer errors, or system issues. To resolve this, try obtaining a new copy of the file from a reliable source or restore it from a backup if available.
    3. Missing or Unlinked External Files: The .RFA file might reference external files like textures, images, or other families that are not properly linked or are missing from the specified location. Ensure that all the necessary files are present in the correct locations and that the file paths are correctly referenced.
    4. Insufficient System Resources: Opening large or complex .RFA files may require significant system resources like memory, processing power, or graphics capabilities. If your system does not meet the minimum requirements, consider upgrading your hardware or optimizing your settings to handle such files.
    5. Licensing or Permission Issues: If you are trying to open a .RFA file that is protected or restricted due to licensing or permission settings, you may encounter difficulties. Ensure that you have the necessary licenses or permissions to access and open the file.
    6. Software Bugs or Glitches: Occasionally, software bugs or glitches may cause issues with opening .RFA files. Ensure that you have the latest version of Autodesk Revit installed, as updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can resolve such issues.

    If none of the above solutions work, it is advisable to seek assistance from Autodesk support or consult relevant user forums or communities where experienced users can provide further guidance based on specific scenarios.

  • Are there any specific software or tools that can help in fixing problems with opening .RFA files?

    Yes, there are a few software and tools that can help in fixing problems with opening .RFA files. Some of the commonly used ones include:

    1. Autodesk Revit: Since .RFA files are associated with Autodesk Revit, using the latest version of the software can often resolve any compatibility issues and help open the files.
    2. Revit Viewer: If you don't have access to Autodesk Revit, you can use the official Revit Viewer provided by Autodesk. It allows you to view and navigate .RFA files without the need for a full Revit installation.
    3. File Repair Tools: There are various file repair tools available online that can help fix corrupted .RFA files. These tools scan the file for errors and attempt to repair them, allowing you to open the file successfully.
    4. File Conversion Tools: If you're unable to open .RFA files, you can try converting them to a different format using file conversion tools. For example, you can convert .RFA files to .IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) or .DWG (AutoCAD Drawing) formats using specific software or online converters. This way, you can open the converted file in a different program that supports the new format.

    It's important to note that the effectiveness of these tools may vary depending on the specific issue with the .RFA file.

  • Are there any alternative file formats or conversion methods that can be used if the problem with opening .RFA files persists?

    Yes, there are alternative file formats and conversion methods that can be used if you are having trouble opening .RFA files. Here are a few options:

    1. Convert the .RFA file to .IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) format: IFC is an open file format commonly used in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Many software applications support IFC files, so converting the .RFA file to .IFC may allow you to open it in a different program.
    2. Use a file converter: There are online file conversion services available that can convert .RFA files to other formats like .DWG (AutoCAD drawing) or .SKP (SketchUp). These converted files can be opened in compatible software.
    3. Try using a different software: If you are unable to open .RFA files with your current software, consider trying a different software application that supports .RFA files. Autodesk Revit is a popular software for working with .RFA files, but there are other programs available as well.
    4. Contact the file source or creator: If you received the .RFA file from someone else, it's worth reaching out to them and asking if they can provide the file in a different format that you can open. They may be able to export the file in a more common format like .DWG or .IFC.

    Remember to always exercise caution when downloading or converting files from unfamiliar sources, as they may contain malware or other security risks.
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