The CDE file format is associated only with a few specialty programs. Most computer users won't encounter this kind of file on a day-to-day basis. However, users of 3D computer-aided design software may require CDE files often. This format is also associated with a type of control design software and is sometimes mistaken for several similar file formats.
CADKEY
- According to Kubotek, CADKEY was the first three-dimensional CAD software to run on personal computers. It innovated many features and tools that have become standard in the design industry. As of 2011, the program is officially known as KeyCreator but can still read, edit and convert older CADKEY files. It also allows 3D direct modeling. You can use KeyCreator for wireframe, surface, 2D and 3D models. It can import files with a .cde extension as well as a range of other standard formats used by professional modeling programs.
CDE CAD files
- The CADKEY CDE format is proprietary, and works only on CADKEY or KeyCreator. Like other vector files, the CDE file stores a set of instructions about the objects it contains that allow you to edit or modify the drawing rather than a specific grouping of pixels. This makes CDE files relatively small, although their size depends on the complexity of the objects they contain. It also makes it easy to resize and adjust CDE file contents.
Honeywell CDE Format
- The Honeywell Hybrid Control Designer, a proprietary program for HC900-x industrial controllers produced by Honeywell, also uses the .cde file extension. You are unlikely to ever encounter files of this type, as they are meant only for internal use by the company. They are not compatible with CADKEY or KeyCreator.
Considerations
- While CDE files are relatively rare among people who aren't professional designers, there are a few common files with similar extensions that may be mistaken for the CDE format. For instance, CorelDRAW uses the .cdr extension for vector and bitmap files. The CDR format may also be used for raw CD-format audio files, virtual CD or DVD images or Apple Final Cut Pro master image files. Some CD audio tracks use CDA format, and the disc-burning utility Nero saves CD covers with the .cdc extension.
