File Extension Database

Open NCW File

"NCW" stands for Native Compressed Wave, which is a type of audio file developed by Native Instruments. This file format is mainly associated with Kontakt sampling software and is most commonly used in the audio industry. However, it could also refer to a compressed format for numerical weather model data. Given these two distinct uses, this article will be structured into separate sections dedicated to each type of NCW file.

Understanding Native Compressed Wave (NCW) Audio Files

Native Instruments has developed the NCW file format to serve as a compressed format for audio data. This format is mostly used in their Kontakt software, which is used in digital music production. Kontakt is a sampler that plays back a range of recorded single samples or sample libraries. The NCW format helps by reducing the file size without losing significant sound quality. It's particularly beneficial for musicians and sound engineers due to its high compression rates and quality audio.

Opening and using NCW files involve having the appropriate software. The primary software for this file type is Native Instruments� Kontakt. To open a file with Kontakt, simply launch the software, then navigate and open the file within the software�s user interface.

Understanding NCW Weather Model Data Files

In the realm of meteorology, the NCW file extension is also used as a compressed format for numerical weather model data. These files can contain various data points like temperature, wind speed, humidity, etc., all in a condensed format for saving space and enabling quicker dissemination.

There are specific software tools to use and open these types of NCW files. One such program is Digital Atmosphere, which is a powerful weather forecasting software allowing meteorologists and enthusiasts to access weather data around the world. To view and analyze NCW data on Digital Atmosphere, you can use the 'Open' function in the software and select your NCW file.

NCW File Important Information

Despite sharing the same extension, these two types of NCW files, one related to audio and the other to weather information, are quite different in nature and use. You can't open the audio NCW file in a meteorology software, nor can you open the NCW weather data file in a sound software like Kontakt. Ensure you know the nature of your NCW file before attempting to open it using a specific software.

Another thing to remember is to have the right software installed in your device. For audio NCW files, you would need the Kontakt player, while for weather NCW data files, software like Digital Atmosphere would do best.

Lastly, remember that most files that carry the NCW extension are proprietary, and the software required to open them may need to be purchased or subscribed to as per the developer's policies. Always respect and follow these policies while using the files.

How Can I Open NCW File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open NCW file is to find a NCW file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a NCW file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open NCW file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as NCW file opener then try to search online for "NCW viewer", "application to open NCW file" or "open NCW file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open NCW file

How Can I Open NCW File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a NCW file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a NCW file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with NCW file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as NCW file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open NCW file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open NCW file then try to search for "NCW viewer", "application to open NCW file" or "read NCW file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read NCW file

How Can I Open NCW File on Android

If you downloaded a NCW file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded NCW file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "NCW".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "NCW viewer", "NCW file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open NCW File on iPhone or iPad

To open NCW File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the NCW file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "NCW". This way you can find apps which can open NCW files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "NCW viewer" or "NCW file" online in your favorite search engine.

Populating this website with information and maintaining it is an ongoing process. We always welcome feedback and questions that can be submitted by visiting Contact Us page. However since there are many users visiting this website and because our team is quite small we may not be able to follow up personally on every request. Thank you for your understanding.