“How do I convert my Family Tree Maker (for Windows) file so that it can be read on Family Tree Maker for Mac?” … this is a question that I’m being asked regularly, so I feel that a blog post is needed.
As Family Tree Maker (the Windows version) has been around for around 20 or so years, with a new version released pretty much every year, there are different methods of transferring depending on what version of FTM you are currently transferring from.
Family Tree Maker Versions 1-4
If you have .fbc files and files from versions prior to version 4 need to be converted on a PC using Family Tree Maker 2005 SE software, which you can download free here. Once downloaded and installed, you bring in your current .fbc or .ftw file into the program, then save it. This will save as a .ftw file which you can then load straight into FTM for Mac.
Family Tree Maker Versions 5-16
If you have .ftw or .fbk files files that were created using a Family Tree Maker version between 5 and 16, these files can be read directly into FTM for Mac without needing any conversion.
Family Tree Maker Versions 2008 or 2009
If you have Family Tree Maker 2008 or 2009, you will nedd to save your file as a Gedcom (.ged), so then it can be imported into FTM for Mac.
Family Tree Maker Versions 2010 or 2011
The Family Tree Maker File Migration Utility converts Family Tree Maker 2010 and 2011 Windows (.ftw) files so they can be opened on a Mac and vice versa. For more information, and step-by-step instructions on how to do this click here.
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I just installed MacFamily Tree 7 and thought from what I had read that I might be able to open or import PC Family Tree Maker 8.0 files (.ftw) into the MAC version. I am not finding a way to do that. Need help.
Hi Kathy, thanks for your query. Now Mac Family Tree won’t be able to read your Family Tree Maker .FTW files, so you will need to get them saved into a gedcom format (.GED) so that they will then come into your new program.
The MacFamilyTree website FAQs does have this question:
Q. I want to switch to Mac Family Tree from Family Tree Maker, Legacy, RootsMagic etc. How can I transfer my information?
A. You need to export your tree file from your previous application as a GEDCOM file. These files can be imported from the start screen or the file menu in MacFamilyTree.
If you have any further queries please email inquiries@gould.com.au.