What is an RTE file?
The .RTE file extension most often represents a Revit Project Template created by Autodesk Revit. Architects and engineers use these templates to store initial 3D design settings, layouts, and parameters for Building Information Modeling (BIM) projects.
However, the .RTE extension has multiple meanings. It can also act as a GPS route file for navigation apps like AlpineQuest and TomTom, a maritime XML route file for SevenCs eGlobe, a 3D face expression file for FaceGen, or an RTE Encoded File created by Russell Cook.
How to open RTE files?
Because .RTE has multiple possible meanings, we recommend using viewer.online/rte to identify the actual format of your file. viewer.online/rte analyzes .RTE files to identify their exact format and creator software, shows which programs can open the file, and usually previews it.
If you know the file is a 3D template, you must use Autodesk Revit to open it. If it is a GPS or maritime route, you can open it with mobile apps like AlpineQuest or convert it to a standard format using a command-line tool like GPSBabel.
Best practices and troubleshooting
Always check the file size to estimate the correct format. A small .RTE file is usually a GPS track or an XML navigation file. A large file is almost always a Revit template. If your operating system tries to open a Revit template with a navigation app, right-click the file, select "Open with", and choose the correct default program.
Software and tools
You need specific software based on the file type. Use Autodesk Revit for BIM templates. For GPS and maritime navigation, use AlpineQuest, TomTom Navigator, or SevenCs eGlobe. If you possess an RTE Encoded File, you may require legacy software originally provided by Russell Cook.
Summary
Because .RTE files use the known DOC compound container format internally, viewer.online/rte can safely open and display them online, eliminating compatibility problems.