Opening PIW Files

The PIW file type is primarily associated with OSIsoft PI ProcessBook.

PIW	File extension: PIW
	File type:	workspace file

What is a PIW file?

PIW files mostly belong to OSIsoft PI ProcessBook. Files with the PIW extension come in two distinct types:

• OSIsoft PI ProcessBook File: This file uses the Microsoft Compound file format to hold industrial process visualization data. It bundles charts, graphics, and embedded configuration details used in process monitoring.
• MapInfo Workspace File: This file works as a workspace that organizes mapping layers and geospatial referencing information for raster images. It is associated with tools from LightPhase and ERDAS IMAGINE.

Functionality:
The first type is used in monitoring and presenting industrial process information. The second type helps manage workspace settings for mapping and image alignment.
Usage Note:
FilExt.com notes: Use the correct software to open your file. For the ProcessBook file, use OSIsoft PI ProcessBook. For the workspace file, use a MapInfo-compatible program.

How to open a PIW file

You need a suitable software like OSIsoft PI ProcessBook to open a PIW file. Without proper software you will receive a Windows message "How do you want to open this file?" or "Windows cannot open this file" or a similar Mac/iPhone/Android alert. If you cannot open your PIW file correctly, try to right-click or long-press the file. Then click "Open with" and choose an application. You can also display a PIW file directly in the browser:. Just drag the file onto this browser window and drop it.

Online PIW Text Viewer

Choose your .piw file to analyze

or drag and drop it here

Online File Viewer

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PIW file format:

The file format determines how the data is stored in the file. A file format is determined by the file extension and signature, so JPEG images have the extension .jpg and the first bytes in the file are ÿØÿ. File extension, signature and file format must match; otherwise errors will occur when the file is opened. Knowledge is power - this also applies when dealing with unknown or faulty files. Our examination of the PIW files comes to the following conclusion:

PIW is seldom used as a file extension and includes different formats for the applicable programs. The file formats most commonly found in PIW files are:

• 60% of all PIW files use the Microsoft Compound File format, which is also called Compound File Binary File format (CFBF or CFB) or OLE2 Compound Document format. This Windows file format has features similar to those of a filesystem format with virtual files and subfolders. Compound files always start with the bytes ÐÏࡱá (hex code D0 CF 11 E0 A1 B1 1A E1). The data in this file is stored in streams whose names are SummaryInformation, XextecrlYoibub4dQjokq2piDe, Master TOC, Data Set List and Localization. Most of these files are 100 KB to 18 MB in size. The file type was created 10 years ago, but is still used today. Files like these are about process, book, trends, processbook and unit.
• 20% of all PIW files use the same file format, which have the signature BF 00 00 00 A3 02 00 00 30. These files contain neither text nor words, but only data. PIW files can be up to 2 MB in size, but are often around 720 bytes - 76 KB. Ortho Mosaic Tiles.PIW is a typical file name. These files are often associated with inch.

All other PIW files (20%) have no consistent format, such as UTF-16 (LE). They are often associated with wwwl or area. You can get all the details of your PIW file by dragging it onto this page or by clicking the button "Choose your .piw file to analyze" above.