Extract text from EdiCAD and Techne models (TCN)
To convert TCN models to another format, you need TPA EdiCAD or other Cad software.
To convert other file formats to the "CNC Machining Program" file type, you need software like TPA EdiCAD or a similar tool.
The .tcn format serves multiple purposes, most prominently as a proprietary CNC woodworking program file. Generated by TPA EdiCAD (also known as Albatros), these files contain toolpath coordinates, drilling parameters, and routing instructions formatted in UTF-16 (LE) encoding. A secondary, but popular, use is as a 3D model container for the Techne modeling software. The Techne variant is essentially a standard ZIP archive holding XML structural data and image textures, commonly used for game modding in titles like TerraTech and Terasology.
Working with .tcn files presents significant workflow challenges. TPA CNC files are heavily proprietary; they require expensive, specialized machine licenses to open and cannot be natively reviewed by standard engineering teams. This creates a bottleneck between designers and CNC operators. Similarly, Techne model files are isolated to specific modding communities and lack native support in modern 3D suites like Blender.
To overcome these vendor lock-ins, converting the file is the most practical solution. For CNC machining, convert .tcn to NC (G-Code) for universal machine compatibility, or to DXF to review the 2D toolpaths in standard CAD software like AutoCAD. For Techne 3D models, convert to STL for 3D printing or OBJ to retain geometry across different 3D editors.
Convert.Guru analyzes your TCN file, detects the exact format, and lets you read the text inside.
Users also converted DXF, DWG, JPG, STEP, PMX and GLB files.
If you want to convert TCN file to OBJ, FBX, DAE, 3DS, MAX, BLEND, MA, MB, C4D, STL, PLY or WRL, you can use TPA EdiCAD or similar software from the "CNC Woodworking Machine Instructions" category. In the File menu, look for Save As… or Export….
To convert DWG, DAE, X3D, IGES, WRL, JT, SKP, 3DS, 3DM, OBJ, STEP or FBX files to TCN, try TPA EdiCAD or another comparable tool in the "CNC Woodworking Machine Instructions" category.
The history of Convert.Guru began over 25 years ago in California with Tom Simondi’s file-format database. A former contributor to Space Shuttle development and a software pioneer of the 1980s, Simondi established a trusted resource for file type analysis that was even referenced by Microsoft Windows XP. Today, we use modern technology to process and convert thousands of file formats while continually improving our TCN converter.