What is the file format of a SHAPE file and what files do I need?

The required files from SHAPE are .SHP, .SHX and a .DBF files.  All files must have the same name.  Other files are sometimes supplied but are not necessary (they will not cause a conflict).  SHAPE files are a specific file created by ESRI and have become the de-facto standard in most GIS applications.  Shape files can be read directly on the G4 as a background file or converted to Job files to make interactive.