BSB File Extension

What is BSB file?

BSB is a file extension commonly associated with MapInfo Sea Chart Format files. Pitney Bowes Software Inc. defined the MapInfo Sea Chart Format format standard. BSB files are supported by software applications available for devices running Windows. BSB file format, along with 1326 other file formats, belongs to the Data Files category. Users are advised to use MapInfo software for managing BSB files, although 1 other programs can also handle this type of file. MapInfo software was developed by Pitney Bowes Software Inc. (MapInfo), and on its official website you may find more information about BSB files or the MapInfo software program.

Programs which support BSB file extension

Programs that can handle BSB files are as follows. Files with BSB suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with BSB extension?

Problems with accessing BSB may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with BSB files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the MapInfo

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening BSB files is that no program that can handle BSB files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select MapInfo or one of the recommended programs (for example, MAPC2MAPC) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading MapInfo installed is by going to developer’s website (Pitney Bowes Software Inc. (MapInfo)) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update MapInfo to the latest version

If the problems with opening BSB files still occur even after installing MapInfo, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of MapInfo is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why BSB files are not compatible with MapInfo. The most recent version of MapInfo is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open BSB files to MapInfo

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate BSB files with latest version of MapInfo you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the BSB file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where MapInfo is installed, check the Always use this app to open BSB files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with BSB extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with BSB extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the BSB for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper BSB file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the BSB file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the BSB file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the BSB file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the BSB file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the BSB file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the BSB file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with BSB extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the MapInfo Sea Chart Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open MapInfo

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support BSB files. Close all running programs and try opening the BSB file.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with MapInfo Sea Chart Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle BSB files.

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