File Extension Database

Open CSV File

CSV file extension is most commonly used by Comma-Separated Value files, which are used extensively by spreadsheet and database applications to transfer data. These may also be referred to as Comma-Separated Variable files. CSV files are also used by Boso View Express Train Simulator to store railway information, though these are far less common.

Comma-Separated Value CSV files contain tabular data in plaintext, with each new line in the file representing an individual record or table row. Within a single record are fields which represent data for each column in the table. These are separated by commas, which allow spreadsheet or database applications to distinguish between data items. These can then be imported to provide a complete table or database structure. In the event that a comma is required within a data item, such as in a product description, for instance, it must be enclosed in another character so that the software importing the CSV is aware not to regard the comma that follows as an end-of-field marker. Double quotes are typically used for this purpose in CSV files, whilst other delimited files tend to use escape characters such as a backslash.

Comma-Separated Value lists predated personal computers, and was originally used in the days of punched cards as these made entering data easier and less error-prone. Now, practically every spreadsheet and database application is capable of handling and opening CSV files, as its widespread support and simplistic model make it an ideal format for the transfer of data between applications. CSV files are what as known as delimited files, meaning their contents are separated by a character, which in this case is a comma. Most applications also support the use of alternative delimiting characters, which can be defined when data is imported or exported.

You can open CSV files by almost any spreadsheet or database application. Examples of these include Microsoft Excel, OpenOffice Calc, Lotus Symphony and Microsoft Access. Data can also be imported directly into databases such as MySQL or Microsoft SQL Server. As data is stored in plaintext, it is also possible to open and edit CSV files in any text editor.

Typical CSV application file locations:

  • C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office12\EXCEL.EXE /e
  • "C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office14\EXCEL.EXE" /dde

Typical CSV mime types:

  • application/vnd.ms-excel

Frequently used application names to open CSV files:

  • Microsoft Office
  • Microsoft Office - Office14

Frequently associated Windows objects:

  • Excel.CSV

How Can I Open CSV File on Windows

How Can I Open CSV File on Mac OS

How Can I Open CSV File on Android

If you downloaded a CSV file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

How to Open CSV File on iPhone or iPad

To open CSV File on iOS device follow steps below:

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CSV file article translations

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