The .dx1 file extension is among several extensions associated with the JCAMP-DX spectrometer data format. You can open JCAMP-DX files using libraries from the JCAMP-DX project. Several mainstream scientific data applications can also handle and convert this format. Users who don't regularly deal with scientific data aren't likely to encounter DX-type files. They may, however, see unrelated files with a similar file extension.
JCAMP-DX
- The JCAMP-DX data format was originally designed for infrared spectrum data from spectroscopy experiments. It can also be used to store chemical structure, mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance and ion mobility spectrometry data, according to OriginLab. JCAMP-DX acts as a standardized file format, making it easier to exchange data between groups using different equipment. This file format uses ASCII-based data and offers some file compression options.
DX Extensions
- This format can be saved using several different file extensions, though the file format itself remains the same. Most JCAMP-DX files end with the .dx extension, but some programs use .dx1 instead. You may also encounter JCAMP-DX files with the .jcm or .jdx file extensions. Any program that can files with the .dx extension should also be able to use the others. If you encounter problems, consider renaming the file to use a different extension, then try opening it again.
Compatibility
- Because JCAMP-DX was designed as a standard data format, most programs capable of dealing with spectroscopy data can open or convert it. The spectrometer itself saves information using a proprietary format, but almost always includes the ability to convert it to a JCAMP-DX format. The JCAMP-DX project offers free libraries to help other programs deal with this format.
Considerations
- Most non-scientists won't handle spectrometer data, but they may encounter files that use extensions which can be mistaken for DX or DX1 files. These include 2d CAD files saved with the .dx extension, .DXL files from databases, XML or Braille translators, and DXF files from Micrografx Picture Publisher. Despite their superficial resemblance to JCAMP-DX files, these formats are unrelated.
