If you have a simple single-track .iso file, you can use the same method or a custom command, but standard CUE/GDI scripts generally work for all file types. Supported Formats
(Optional) Add this folder path to your Windows Environment Variables so you can run the chdman command from any folder on your PC. Step-by-Step: How to Use chdman.exe Method 1: Converting a Single Game via Command Prompt
If you are looking to download chdman.exe , understand how to use it, or need to compress your ROM collection for systems like Sega CD, Dreamcast, or PlayStation 1, this guide provides everything you need. What is chdman.exe?
chdman.exe stands for . It is a command-line utility developed by the MAME (Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator) team. download chdman.exe
Download the official Windows binary release (usually a .exe self-extracting archive or a .zip file). Step 2: Extract chdman.exe
Method 1: Download via the Official MAME Release (Recommended)
A command prompt window will open, showing the progression of the compression algorithm. If you have a simple single-track
: chdman requires a descriptor sheet like .cue or .gdi to compress multi-track layouts. If you have a raw .bin file without a .cue file, you can generate a generic .cue sheet online or via freeware burning tools before running the compressor. Summary Checklist Tool Link / Command Download MAME Binaries Package Official MAME Site Compress CD .cue / .gdi →right arrow .chd chdman createcd Compress DVD .iso →right arrow .chd chdman createdvd Decompress .chd →right arrow .cue / .bin chdman extractcd
Creating CHD v5... Compression: 78% Finished. Output written to C:\Games\CHD\game.chd
Since you are downloading an executable file, exercise standard caution: What is chdman
You should see a list of commands ( createcd , extract , verify , etc.).
If you prefer not to use the command line, a vibrant ecosystem of has been built around chdman . These programs act as "wrappers," allowing you to click buttons instead of typing commands.