E57 Viewer – How to Open E57 Files

E57 files are increasingly popular in industries like Mechanical Engineering, Architecture, and 3D design. These files, known as "3D point cloud data files," store detailed spatial and imaging data that can be critical in projects ranging from construction modeling to product design. They are needed to work with “as-built” objects, such as legacy parts or existing buildings. If you're working with E57 files, it’s essential to learn how to open, view, and share them effectively.

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View the 3D model online
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  • Open a 3D file of any size on your computer, laptop, or smartphone
  • Send a link to others who might be interested
  • No software installation needed.
This guide will explain how you can view E57 files online, upload, open, and annotate them for better communication. We'll also break down the three most common ways to work with E57 files offline and answer common questions engineers and designers may have.

How to Open and View E57 Files Online 

Tools like Sibe simplify the process of opening and sharing E57 files. With these online tools, you don’t need to download any software. Just upload your E57 file, and you can view the data instantly. These platforms allow users to pan, zoom in/out of, and rotate their 3D models directly in the browser, plus They alsothey include options for annotation and markups. This makes collecting and sharing feedback on the model far easier. 

However, offline solutions to open E57 files may still be required for users needing advanced options or withworking in scenarios with limited internet bandwidth. Below, we'll explore additional options methods. 

Method 1: Using Cloud Compare

CloudCompare is one of the most widely used tools for working with point cloud data., like E57 files. This free, open-source software is designed specifically for 3D file viewing and editing, making it a favorite among technical professionals. 

How to Use Cloud Compare 

  • Download and install CloudCompare from their official website. 
  • Open the software and select File > Open to upload your E57 file. 
  • Use navigation tools to explore the 3D point cloud data. 
  • Analyze or interact with the data using built-in editing and measurement tools. 

Pros and Cons of Cloud Compare 

Pros Cons
Free and open source Limited user interface for beginners
Wide compatibility with 3D file types Requires more system resources
Plenty of analysis tools available

Method 2: Autodesk ReCap 

Autodesk ReCap is a premium software specifically tailored to work with point cloud data like E57 files. Ideal for Eengineers and Ddesigners who already use other Autodesk tools, ReCap provides a fully integrated environment. 

How to Use Autodesk ReCap 

  • Install Autodesk ReCap from the Autodesk website. They offer a free trial if you're new. 
  • Open ReCap and load your E57 file by clicking New Project > Import Files
  • Take advantage of ReCap’s extensive visualization tools to interact with point clouds, or convert the data into a format that works with AutoCAD or Revit. 

Pros and Cons of Autodesk ReCap 

Pros Cons
Seamless Autodesk integration Expensive for small teams
High-quality visualization techniques Learning curve for beginners
Supports various workflows for CAD applications Requires Autodesk subscription
Provides more security than online viewers Can be resource-intensive

Method 3: Leica Cyclone Viewer 

Leica Cyclone Viewer is another excellent choice for opening and navigating through E57 files. Aimed at professionals working in 3D scanning and point cloud modeling, it offers robust tools for visualization and collaboration. 

How to Use Leica Cyclone Viewer 

  • Download Leica Cyclone Viewer from their official website. They offer both desktop and mobile versions. 
  • Launch the software and load the E57 file by selecting File > Import
  • Explore the advanced capabilities for navigating and annotating  within a model. 

Pros and Cons of Leica Cyclone Viewer

Pros Cons
User-friendly interface Costlier than other solutions
Strong collaboration options Limited features without premium license
Optimized for large-scale projects

Comparing E57 Files to Other 3D File Formats 

E57 files differ from other 3D file formats like .STL, .OBJ, or .SLDASM in their focus on representing accurate spatial data. Here’s a quick comparison between some of the common formats and their use cases:

File Type Best For Data Type
E57 Point cloud visualization Spatial and imaging data
STL 3D printing Surface geometry only
SLDASM CAD assemblies consisting of multiple parts design projects Assembly data (mates, constraints, dimensions)
OBJ Sharing 3D models across different platforms Surface and texture info

Quickly find answers to common questions in our FAQ section

Want to know more
What software can open E57 files? 

CloudCompare, Autodesk ReCap, and Leica Cyclone Viewer are reliable tools for opening E57 files.

Are E57 files editable?

Yes, tools like CloudCompare allow you to edit E57 point cloud files.

How large are E57 files?

They vary in size depending on the data they store but can range into several GB for detailed files.

 Can I convert E57 to other file types?

Yes, many programs like Autodesk ReCap allow you to convert E57 files into other formats like .STL or .OBJ.

 Are E57 files compatible with AutoCAD?

E57 files can be imported into AutoCAD workflows through Autodesk ReCap.

 How to share E57 files?

Use file-sharing tools or cloud platforms, but ensure high-speed Iinternet is required for large files.

Can I view E57 files on mobile? 

Yes, mobile apps like Leica Cyclone Field offer viewing capabilities on the go. 

Are there any free tools for E57?

CloudCompare is a powerful, free solution for opening and editing E57 files.

Do E57 files contain textures?

Not textures, but they store spatial data and associated color imaging.

Is an E57 file the same as a 3D model?

Not exactly. E57 files represent point clouds, which are a collection of data points in space rather than solid 3D models. 

See also