What is a .RDL file?
The file extension .RDL stands for MicroStation Redline File. This type of file is a vector-based drawing format. Vector-based means it uses lines and shapes to create the image, which allows it to be scaled (made bigger or smaller) without losing quality. These files are specifically used with Bentley MicroStation software. An .RDL file is saved as a "reference attachment." This means it is not a standalone file but is designed to be used together with an active model file, such as a .DGN (the default file format for MicroStation) or a .DWG (a file format used by AutoCAD, another design software). The .RDL file contains additional information or modifications that can be displayed over the active model file. This is particularly useful for plotting (creating a hard copy of a design) or for construction purposes, where additional details or corrections might need to be added to the original design without altering the original file.
To open an .RDL file, you can use Bentley MicroStation, which is the primary software for which it is designed. Bentley Redline is another program that can open these files, offering specific tools for viewing and editing redline files. Autodesk AutoCAD 2023 can also open .RDL files, making it a versatile option for those who work across different software platforms.
It's important to note that .RDL files usually have a similar name as the model file they are meant to be used with. This helps in identifying which .RDL file corresponds to which model file. Also, for everything to work smoothly, it's recommended to save the .RDL file in the same folder as the model file it references. This organization helps the software to easily link the .RDL file with its corresponding model file.
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