MDA File

What are MDA files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a MDA file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your MDA files.

What is a MDA file?

MDA files have multiple uses, and EPICS Sscan/saveData Format is one of them. Read more about the other uses further down the page.

EPICS Sscan/saveData Format

MDA files, known colloquially as EPICS Sscan/saveData Format files, are binary files that store data collected with the Experimental Physics and Industrial Control System (EPICS) software, which is used to regulate scientific equipment and experiments.

EPICS is a well-known and open-source system that facilitates the creation of control systems for research experiments and lab equipment.

EPICS uses the.mda file format to store data acquired through Sscan, a record type used in EPICS to execute data acquisition. This record type lets users control and configure data acquisition processes. For example, they can set the sampling rate, name the data sources and locations, and change how their retrieved data is formatted and stored.

The Sscan record optimizes data acquisition by storing it in the compact and self-contained .mda file format, which is ideal for saving and transferring.

How to open MDA files

We have identified one MDA opener that is compatible with this specific type of MDA file.

Programs that open EPICS Sscan/saveData Format files

Last updated: February 24, 2023

All known file formats using extension .MDA

While EPICS Sscan/saveData Format is a popular type of MDA-file, we know of 4 different uses of the .MDA file extension. Different software may use files with the same extension for different types of data.

MicroDesign Area Bitmap

We know that one MDA format is MicroDesign Area Bitmap. We have not yet analyzed in detail what these files contain and what they are used for. We're working on it.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested six different MDA openers which you will find listed below.

Micrografx Archive

We know that one MDA format is Micrografx Archive. We have not yet analyzed in detail what these files contain and what they are used for. We're working on it.

Rays Media Data

We know that one MDA format is Rays Media Data. We have not yet analyzed in detail what these files contain and what they are used for. We're working on it.

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of MDA files. Remember, different programs may use MDA files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.

Help us help others

File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about MDA file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.