.IES File Extension

IES Photometric Data File

An IES file is a plain text file that contains data about the distribution and intensity of light from a specific light source. "IES" stands for the Illuminating Engineering Society, the organization that established the standard format for these files. Lighting manufacturers create and distribute IES files to help professionals visualize how their lighting products perform. These files contain information about how light spreads across a space, helping designers plan efficient and accurate lighting systems. Engineers and architects load IES files into design software to model how lighting will function in specific environments. This allows them to test different lighting setups before installation.

IES files are widely used in architectural and design programs like AutoCAD. They are also compatible with many 3D modeling and interior design applications. These programs use the data to render realistic lighting effects and simulate how light interacts with various surfaces.

How to Open .IES as IES Photometric Data File

You can open and view IES files using specialized lighting simulation software or a basic text editor. For a detailed view of the lighting data, use programs like:

• Autodesk Revit
• Autodesk AutoCAD

If you only want to read the plain text data, you can open IES files with any text editor, such as Notepad on Windows or TextEdit on macOS.

How to Convert an IES File

To convert IES files into other formats like Eulumdat (.LDT) or CIE, you can use software such as OxyTech LITESTAR 4D Open or online tools like the IES to ELUMDAT Converter. These conversions are useful if you need the data in a different photometric format for compatibility with other applications.

Applications That Open IES Files

Windows Apps for IES Files:

• Autodesk AutoCAD Free Trial
• Autodesk Revit LT Free Trial

macOS Apps for IES Files:

• Autodesk AutoCAD Free Trial

In-browser (Online) Apps for IES Files:

• Viso Photometric Editor Free