TLB File Extension

What is TLB file?

TLB files are used by OLE (Object Linking and Embedding) objects.

Contents of TLB files

Files with TLB extensions contain type libraries that store information related to OLE objects. Such objects constitute elements defining embedded documents. TLB files can store such data as:

• audio tracks,
• videos,
• animations,
• text data,
• images,

along with its usage definitions. TLB files store parameters for interfacing with embedded documents. Type libraries can be embedded into an executable file (.EXE file), DLL library or defined in a standalone TLB file.

Programs which support TLB file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support TLB files. Files with TLB extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 01/01/2024

How to open file with TLB extension?

Being unable to open files with TLB extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with TLB files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install Microsoft Excel

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening TLB files is that no program that can handle TLB files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Excel or different compatible program, such as Microsoft Windows. 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 Microsoft Excel installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Excel to the latest version

If the problems with opening TLB files still occur even after installing Microsoft Excel, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Excel is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that Microsoft Excel cannot handle files with TLB may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Microsoft Excel should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open TLB files to Microsoft Excel

After installing Microsoft Excel (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open TLB files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the TLB 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 Microsoft Excel is installed, check the Always use this app to open TLB files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the TLB file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select Microsoft Excel and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with TLB extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the TLB for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the TLB file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the TLB file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the TLB file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. TLB file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic TLB file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with TLB extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the OLE Type Library file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Microsoft Excel

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with TLB extension. In this case close the other applications.

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with OLE Type Library files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with TLB files affecting older versions of given software.

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