What Is a PEF File?
A file with the PEF file extension is a Pentax raw image file that stands for Pentax Electronic File. It’s an uncompressed and unedited photo taken with a Pentax digital camera. The image is yet to be processed in any way—it represents all the raw data taken in by the camera. Other PEF files may instead be Portable Embosser Format files; they’re sometimes called PEF Braille Book files. These files use XML to represent physical braille books.
How to Open a PEF File
PEF files from a Pentax camera open with the software that comes with the digital camera, as well as with Able RAWer, UFRaw, Windows’ Photos and Live Photo Gallery, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Photoshop Elements, and probably some other popular photo and graphics tools. Braille Utils opens braille books.
How to Convert a PEF File
Some free image converter tools convert PEF files to a different image format. Zamzar is one example, and since it’s an online converter, you have to first upload the file to that website, and then choose an output format to convert it to before downloading it. It can convert PEF to JPG, PNG, BMP, PDF, TIFF, TGA, and other similar formats. Adobe DNG Converter converts the PEF file to DNG on Windows and macOS.
Still Can’t Open It?
If your file isn’t opening using the suggestions from above, it’s possible you’re misreading the file extension. Even though their file extensions look similar, PEF files have nothing to do with PDF, PEM, or PEG (Peggle Replay) files. So, if you’re dealing with one of those files instead, you’ll most likely have to use different software to open it.
