How to Install Bin Files on a Mac

Since the beginning of personal computing, users have tried to find ways to compress files to transfer them via disc or the Internet. There were several of these for the Mac, but the survivor is StuffIt from Smith Micro. Fortunately, the product also has a free decompressor or extractor called UnStuffIt, which can be used to install .bin files on a Mac.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• UnStuffIt program

1. Go to the Smith Micro website and download the free UnStuffIt extractor. It is free, but the company will request your email address. Install the program on your Mac and, if you're using Mac OS X Tiger or Leopard, drag the icon to the dock.

2. Download the .bin file from the Internet. You can set your download to automatically open UnStuffIt to extract the file, but it isn't necessary. Save the .bin file to a folder or your desktop.

3. Click, hold and drag the .bin file over the UnStuffIt icon on the Dock. This will decompress or extract the compressed file. It will either appear as a .dmg file or a folder.

4. Go to the .dmg file and double click it. This will mount the file as if it were a hard drive or other volume. Double click on it to open the mounted file. Inside will be an orange-brown icon with the name and the suffix .pkg.

5. Double click the .pkg file and a dialog box will appear with instructions for how to install the file or program on your Mac.

Tips & Warnings

• Some .bin files will need to be extracted twice.

Resources

• UnStuffIt downloads