A File
Did your computer fail to open an A file? We explain what they are used for and recommend software that we know can open or otherwise handle your .A files.
What is an A file?
An .A file is an Unix Archive (Static Library) file. These .a files are Unix static library files. For example, when compiling the source code of a Unix program, binary object files are created with the .o file extension. The ar archive utility can bundle these object files together into a so-called "static library file", which has file extension .a.
These binary library files can be distributed to other developers, e.g., as part of a commercial third-party component to which the source code is not sold. In that way, other developers can include the functionality of the library in their own applications.
What else are .A files used for?
While Unix Archive (Static Library) File is a popular type of A-file, we know of 3 different uses of the .A extension.
The A file extension indicates to your device which app can open the file. However, different apps may use the same file extension for different types of data. So an A opener may not be able to open all kinds of A files. In this case, look through all formats to make sure you find the best suited A viewer.
ADA Source Code File
Files that contain the .a file extension are most commonly associated with the source code files for the Ada programming language.
These files contain structured, object-oriented computer code files that have been written in the Ada language.The Ada language was originally created for the US Department of Defense. Files with the .a extension are commonly used in mission-critical applications and avionics software.
How to open A files
You will need a program compatible with the specific file you are trying to open, as different programs may use files with extension A for different purposes. We have identified 2 A openers for Windows that is compatible with this specific type of A file.
Programs that open A files
STK Attitude Format
Attitude files are files used by Systems Tool Kit (STK), a software system developed by Analytical Graphics, Inc.
STK is a physics-based software used by scientific experts in analyzing ground, sea, air, and space coordinates. For example, attitude files provide vehicle orientation and body frame as it travels across specific coordinates. This data will then be computed by the STK using animation and simulation.
Known users of STK attitude files include NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and the US Department of Defense.
A opener for Windows 10
 | Systems Tool Kit | Verified |
Various A file openers, viewers, etc.
These apps are known to open certain types of A files. Remember, different programs may use A files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.
 | Free File Viewer | User submitted |
 | B1 Free Archiver | User submitted |
 | Stuffit Expander | User submitted |
 | Any Video Converter Professional | User submitted |
 | Snes9X SNES Emulator | User submitted |
 | XZip | User submitted |
 | Flash Movie Player | User submitted |
 | progeCAD Professional | User submitted |
 | IZArc | User submitted |
 | CodeWarrior | User submitted |
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