Hierarchical Data Format
Hierarchical Data Format (HDF) is a library and multi-object file format for the transfer of graphical and numerical data between computers. The freely available HDF distribution consists of the library, command-line utilities, test suite source, Java interface, and the Java-based HDF Viewer (JHV).
HDF supports several different data models, including multidimensional arrays, raster images, and tables. Each defines a specific aggregate data type and provides an API for reading, writing, and organising the data and metadata. New data models can be added by the HDF developers or users.
HDF is self-describing, allowing an application to interpret the structure and contents of a file without any outside information.
One HDF file can hold a mixture of related objects which can be accessed as a group or as individual objects. Users can create their own grouping structures called "vgroups."
HDF files can be shared across most common platforms, including many workstations and high-performance computers. An HDF file created on one computer can be read on a different system without modification.
See also
This article is based on material taken from the Free On-line Dictionary of Computing prior to 1 November 2008 and incorporated under the "relicensing" terms of the GFDL, version 1.3 or later.