What is an Amiga IFF File?

The Amiga computer system, which was released in 1985 by Commodore, was known for its advanced multimedia capabilities and its ability to run multiple tasks simultaneously. One of the key features of the Amiga system was the use of the Interchange File Format, or IFF, for storing various types of data.

IFF files were designed to be a generic container format that could be used for storing different types of data, such as images, audio, and animations. This made it easy to transfer data between different applications and to open and read IFF files with a wide range of software programs.

Amiga Deluxe Paint III

One of the most common types of IFF files is the ILBM (InterLeaved BitMap) file, which is used for storing images. ILBM files are bitmap images that are compressed using run-length encoding, which makes them smaller in size and faster to load. They support multiple resolutions, and also support indexed colour and even HAM colour mode (Hold And Modify) which allowed the Amiga to display 4096 colours on screen.

Another common type of IFF file is the 8SVX file, which is used for storing audio. 8SVX files are 8-bit, sampled sound files that can be played back on the Amiga's built-in sound hardware. These files also support looping and also multiple voices.

And last but not least, ANIM file is a format for storing animations. These files contain multiple frames of images that are played back in sequence to create the animation. The Amiga's powerful hardware and software made it possible to create smooth animations with high frame rates and detailed graphics.

The Amiga's use of the IFF file format was a major part of what made the system so popular among users, and the IFF file format is still used today in some retro-gaming communities. The ability to easily transfer data between different applications and the wide range of software programs that could open and read IFF files made it easy for users to create and share multimedia content.

In conclusion, the IFF file format was an important part of the Amiga computer system, and it played a major role in the system's popularity and success. Its ability to store various types of data, such as images, audio, and animations, made it a versatile and powerful tool for creating and sharing multimedia content. Even today, the IFF file format is still remembered as one of the key features that made the Amiga computer system stand out.