File Extension Database

Open BSB File

BSB files are primarily associated with map and chart data used in navigation software. They are raster images encoded in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) standard, and sometimes also used for printed maps. This article will discuss the different formats and ways to open and use BSB files, both as map data and other potential uses for the file extension.

BSB Files for Maritime Charts

BSB files are commonly used for maritime charts, employing the standard format provided by the NOAA. As a result, opening and using BSB files usually requires specialized software designed for maritime navigation. One such software is OpenCPN, a free, open-source chart plotting and navigation application compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Another option is PolarView NS, a feature-rich application that supports BSB charts, as well as several other chart formats. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Converting BSB Files

If your preferred navigation software doesn't support BSB files, it's possible to convert these files to other formats like TIFF, JPEG, or PNG. One useful tool for such a conversion is libbsb, an open-source BSB chart handling library that can be used to convert BSB to other formats.

Alternatively, you can try online conversion services like AnyConv or Zamzar to convert BSB files to other raster image formats without the need for additional software installation.

Other Uses of the BSB File Extension

Although BSB files are primarily used for maritime charts, they can sometimes be associated with other types of data. In such cases, it's essential to identify the exact type of data that the BSB file contains to determine the appropriate software for opening and using it. Always exercise caution when opening BSB files from unknown sources, as they might contain malicious content.

BSB File Important Information

In conclusion, BSB files are an important format for maritime navigation charts, but always be cautious when dealing with unfamiliar files. For opening and using BSB files, software like OpenCPN and PolarView NS are excellent choices. You can also convert BSB files to TIFF, JPEG, or PNG using libbsb or online conversion services like AnyConv and Zamzar for broader compatibility. Remember, although BSB files typically contain map data, other uses might require specific software to open them based on their content.

How Can I Open BSB File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open BSB file is to find a BSB file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a BSB file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open BSB file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as BSB file opener then try to search online for "BSB viewer", "application to open BSB file" or "open BSB file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open BSB file

How Can I Open BSB File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a BSB file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a BSB file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with BSB file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as BSB file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open BSB file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open BSB file then try to search for "BSB viewer", "application to open BSB file" or "read BSB file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read BSB file

How Can I Open BSB File on Android

If you downloaded a BSB file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded BSB file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "BSB".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "BSB viewer", "BSB file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open BSB File on iPhone or iPad

To open BSB File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the BSB file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "BSB". This way you can find apps which can open BSB files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "BSB viewer" or "BSB file" online in your favorite search engine.

Populating this website with information and maintaining it is an ongoing process. We always welcome feedback and questions that can be submitted by visiting Contact Us page. However since there are many users visiting this website and because our team is quite small we may not be able to follow up personally on every request. Thank you for your understanding.