
#GEDCOM FILE VIEWER SOFTWARE#
Create a GEDCOM file of your family data using genealogy software (this is the only way to get a GEDCOM file from your own family tree information).You can’t use GEDCOMs in other types of software, such as word processors (Word) or web browsers (Google Chrome). You don’t have to buy a GEDCOM, but you do need a genealogy program to create or open one. The format’s compatible with all genealogy software, so no matter what program you use, you can open GEDCOMs created with another program - and other researchers can open your files. What is a GEDCOM file?Ī: GEDCOM is a computer file format that lets genealogists swap information about their ancestors. That can save time and produce more accurate results, so see if your software offers this option before using a GEDCOM file. Some genealogy programs read Family Tree Maker (FTM), Personal Ancestral File (PAF) and other file formats directly-no GEDCOM conversion required. The catch: Because those proprietary formats treat information differently than GEDCOM does, data doesn’t transfer perfectly. You also can contribute your work to online databases such as FamilySearch Memories, or download a fellow researcher’s data and add it to your own family file-without retyping anything. That means you can share your family information with your relatives, even if you use different programs. If you think of computer file formats as languages, GEDCOM is the one that all genealogy software “speaks.” Each family tree program has its own default file format (called a proprietary format), which other software usually can’t “translate.” But every program can read and write GEDCOM files, too. We’ve explained what GEDCOM stands for-but what does it mean for your family history research? Fear not: Our primer provides step-by-step instructions for creating and using GEDCOM files. Though most people have little trouble using their genealogy software to enter data and print reports, handling GEDCOMs can be intimidating. We’re talking about GEDCOM, of course-that ubiquitous acronym for GEnealogical Data COMmunications, the standard computer file format family historians use to exchange information. But for many roots researchers, it’s one of genealogy’s enduring mysteries. Thousands of family historians use it to save and swap their data. You’ve seen it mentioned on your favorite websites and in practically every issue of our magazine.


#GEDCOM FILE VIEWER HOW TO#
How to Export Your Family Tree GEDCOM Multimedia Files from RootsMagic Written by Rick Crume, unless otherwise noted Jump to:ħ Steps for Downloading a GEDCOM file from Family Tree Templates and Relationship Charts.Best UK, Irish and Commonwealth Genealogy Websites.Best African American Genealogy Websites.Surnames: Family Search Tips and Surname Origins.Preserving Old Photos of Your Family History.How to Find Your Ancestor’s US Military Records.
