Where Are The Data Files Stored By Family Tree Maker?

Family Tree Maker is an application that allows users to create and manage family tree files, backup files, media files, and more. The application comes with various file types, including manuals, licensing files, family tree files, backup files, media files, and more. To ensure that your files are saving to the chosen location, you can either create a new file or import a file into Family Tree Maker.

By default, your data file is stored in My Documents, in a folder called Family Tree Maker. You should see two files with your tree name, one of which is a FTM file. Family Tree Maker stores its data in separate file types depending on the type of data recorded. Carbonite recommends restoring these files if needed. As of version 2019, FTM does not have a separate default location for backups. The only location you can choose is the “Default location for a new tree” found under Settings – so ToolsOptions in Windows or Family.

To export a file in Family Tree Maker, click on the File menu and select Export. The Export file window will open, and you can choose Entire file to copy all individuals to the new file or Custom directory and click Change to select a new location for storing the backup on your hard disk. The help center can be found at the Ancestry Family Tree Maker Support Site or the Family Tree Maker Knowledge Base.

Family Tree Maker saves family trees as a proprietary FTMB file, but the Export function allows you to save a tree in a different format, potentially one that can be used by other users. To find your Family Tree Maker files, press the Windows logo key + Q to open the App search window. In the Options menu on the General tab, you can change the default save location.

Family Tree Maker uses a single user database called SQLite, which is robust and single-user. It is always safe to keep media files and backup files in the special cloud sync folder.

Where Does Family Tree Maker Store Data?

Family Tree Maker organizes its data into various file types stored under C:Users(User Name), which may vary based on your setup. If your name isn’t visible, check for generic folders like Owner or User. Key file types include manuals, licensing, family tree files, backups, and media files. To ensure files save correctly, create or import a file, then check your chosen save location. You can opt to save backup files in the Family Tree Maker folder in Documents or select a custom directory.

The default storage for data files is in the Family Tree Maker folder within My Documents, where you can usually find files named after your tree. After installing FTM 2024, your previous version file opens automatically and is converted to the latest format. TreeVault offers cloud backup for FTM 2019 services, enhancing data security. Ancestry supports Family Tree Maker, which allows you to maintain access to records, with a new beta feature called Preserve My Tree launched in late 2023.

You can share your data by exporting it in formats such as PDF, CSV, or RTF. Family Tree Maker sources files in two locations on your computer, facilitating organized access to your genealogical information.

Can You Export Data From Family Tree Maker?

To export a file in Family Tree Maker, you have two options. For a complete export, click on "Entire file." If you prefer to export specific individuals, select "Selected individuals," which opens the Filter Individuals window. Within this window, you can add individuals by clicking their names followed by "Include." To initiate the export process, access the File menu and choose Export. The Export window allows you to decide between exporting the entire file or selected individuals.

For GEDCOM format exports, the process remains similar. After selecting Export from the File menu, you will encounter an Export Branch Wizard, which simplifies the process of exporting individuals related to the selected person in your tree. You can save the information in various formats, including GEDCOM. The Family Tree Builder offers additional functionality to export selected individuals and fields into a CSV file, compatible with spreadsheet software.

If you need to convert a Family Tree Maker file (. ftmb) to GEDCOM, the guide provides steps for doing so, whether you are importing from another genealogical software or exporting data to a different desktop application. Remember, when exporting, the original file remains unchanged, preserving all data and media items. This ensures a safe transfer of your family tree information.

How Can I Open Old Family Tree Maker Files?

To convert a Family Tree Maker file to a suitable format for newer versions, start by opening the Family Tree Maker program and the desired file. From the "File" menu, select "Copy / Export Family File." Then, enter a new file name and change "Save as Type:" to "GEDCOM" (*. GED) before clicking "Save." Generally, keeping the default settings suffices unless you’re converting specifically for a certain program.

This overview focuses on using Family Tree Maker 2005 Starter Edition to prepare files for Family Tree Maker versions 2008-2019. Notably, . FTW or . FBK files from versions 5-16 are compatible for import into Family Tree Maker 2009-2012.

To import a tree from an existing file in newer versions, click the "Plan" button, then "New Tree," followed by "Import a tree from an existing file." Browse for your family tree file accordingly. For converting older FTM files, the Family Tree Maker File Migration Utility aids in transferring files to be opened on a Mac or other systems. FTM 2019 supports all prior versions, requiring that you manage file formats appropriately for successful imports. Additionally, other genealogy software may be available to facilitate recognizing and transferring FTM files as needed.

Where Are Family Tree Maker Files Stored?

Family Tree Maker (FTM) stores its data in various file types, located typically in the C:Users(User Name) directory on your computer. The exact path may vary based on your setup, often appearing under generic names like Owner or User. Files are organized primarily in a folder called Family Tree Maker within My Documents. The files have the . ftm extension and are named after the corresponding family tree, retaining any spaces from the tree name.

Different types of files created or associated with FTM include manuals, licensing files, family tree files, backup files, media files, and embellishment images. To change the default save location, you can navigate through the Tools menu to Options, then the General tab. Here, you can browse to select a new folder for saving files.

Since version 2019, FTM lacks a separate default backup location, requiring users to adjust settings under ToolsOptions to specify where to save backups. Ensuring that all media files related to your family tree are correctly stored and not misplaced is crucial. If issues arise, users can restore their data using backup files stored in the designated Family Tree Maker folder. For assistance with backing up and managing files, contacting support at +1-888-257-3335 is recommended.

How Do I Recover My Family Tree Maker Files?

To restore from a backup in Family Tree Maker (FTM) 2017 and 2019 for Windows, follow these steps: Open FTM, click on the File menu, and select Restore. In the "Choose File to Restore" window, navigate to your backup file's location, select it, and click Open. It's important to disable any anti-virus software before restoration. If your backup is on removable media, copy it back to your hard drive first. Family Tree Maker by Ancestry. com is genealogy software for creating family trees and timelines.

File damage can happen due to abrupt shutdowns, malware, or hard drive issues. Users should always maintain a reliable backup system to prevent data loss. FTM offers an easy backup creator for external drives or CDs. In case of file corruption, a full manual backup ensures successful restoration. It’s advisable to restore the FTM files to your Desktop for easier import back into the program. If facing difficulties, downloading FTM for Windows 2005 can help open . FTM files. For further guidance, users can contact support. In summary, regular backups and careful restoration practices are crucial for maintaining genealogical data integrity in Family Tree Maker.

Can I Import Family Tree Maker Files Into Ancestry?

You can upload a tree from Family Tree Maker (FTM) to Ancestry by selecting "Upload and Link to Ancestry" in the Plan workspace. If you already have a tree on Ancestry, you can download and link it to a new tree in FTM by clicking "Download from Ancestry" on the New Tree tab. Older FTM files (. FTW and . FBK) may require conversion for compatibility. To maintain the connection between FTM and Ancestry, you need FTM 2017 or 2019, which allow synchronization with Ancestry trees and access to Ancestry records.

Ancestry utilizes GEDCOM files for tree uploads and downloads; only the tree owner can export these files, and a membership is not required for this process. The file size limit for GEDCOM uploads to Ancestry is 500MB. To export from Ancestry, go to the Trees tab, where you can create or manage trees. It's recommended to import into a new file in RootsMagic after exporting from Ancestry as a GEDCOM file.

Notably, older versions of Family Tree Maker (prior to 2017) cannot sync with Ancestry but can still function independently. For FTM 2017 and 2019, the ability to link and manage trees directly enhances user experience and ease of genealogical research.

What Database Does Family Tree Maker Use?

Family Tree Maker (FTM) is genealogy software for Windows and Mac that facilitates family tree construction by automatically searching both the FamilySearch and Ancestry databases for potential matches. This software utilizes the SQLite database, known for being a multi-platform, single-file database with a small footprint, enabling efficient data management. Family Tree Maker simplifies the searching, matching, and merging processes for these genealogical databases.

Users first need to build a family tree within the program to leverage its capabilities fully. FTM includes features for generating traditional genealogical reports, family group sheets, and even reports on significant dates like birthdays. Following Ancestry's decision to stop supporting FTM, Software MacKiev has continued to publish and improve the software. The software supports GEDCOM files for importing genealogical data and integrates with FamilySearch for enhanced matching capabilities. FamilySync has emerged as a replacement for Ancestry's features within FTM, ensuring that users can continue their genealogy research effectively.

Where Can I Find A Family Tree Maker Helpcentre?

The Family Tree Maker support can be accessed through the Ancestry Family Tree Maker Support Site and the Family Tree Maker Knowledge Base. Understanding various file types and backing up data is crucial, with detailed resources available regarding file types and icons. The support site (support. familytreemaker. com / support. mackiev. com) offers current support information, featuring frequently used articles, FAQs, troubleshooting steps, and guides for optimal use, including for the latest version, FTM 2019.

The Getting Started Guide provides assistance on setting up the software, building a tree, and basic troubleshooting. Users can connect via 24/7 live chat for immediate support. Family Tree Maker software helps individuals create family trees, boosting genealogy research efficiency. Users unfamiliar with Family Tree Maker can learn the basics through available courses. For direct assistance, users can contact Family Tree Maker support at the toll-free number +1-888-257-3335.

The official site also offers additional help resources and a vibrant community dedicated to supporting users, ensuring a comprehensive support experience for those utilizing Family Tree Maker across all platforms.

Where Is Family Tree Maker Data Stored?

Family Tree Maker organizes its files within C:Users(User Name), which may differ based on individual setups. Typical file types include manuals, licensing files, individual family tree files, media files, and backup files, stored by default in "My Documents" under a "Family Tree Maker" folder. To verify that files are saving correctly, users can create or import a new file. Historical data formats vary by version; for instance, versions 1 to 16 use .

ftw or . fbk extensions. TreeVault serves as a secure backup and repository for family tree data, ensuring that only the owner can edit the trees. Users are encouraged to export their trees as GEDCOM files for added security. Transitioning data between versions or platforms may require a File Migration Utility for compatibility. Ancestry acquired Family Tree Maker in 2016 and supports its functionalities. When altering save locations, such changes affect only newly created or imported files.

Regular backups are advised for safeguarding data during transfers to other systems, with cloud storage options enhancing security. For offline storage of family trees, users may consider traditional methods like spreadsheets. Ultimately, maintaining comprehensive backup files ensures data safety and smooth transitions across devices.

Is Family Tree Maker Obsolete?

A new version of Family Tree Maker for Mac was released on November 4, 2010, while Family Tree Maker Version 16 received a Codie award in 2006 for "Best Consumer Productivity Solution." However, on December 8, 2015, Ancestry. com announced the discontinuation of Family Tree Maker (FTM) after 26 years, multiple ownerships, and various major versions for both Windows (22) and Mac (4). In 2017, Ancestry partnered with MacKiev, transitioning from TreeSync to FamilySync for syncing between desktop software and Ancestry trees, making older editions prior to 2017 incompatible for syncing yet still usable as standalone programs.

Ancestry's decision to retire Family Tree Maker marked a departure from vertical integration with its website, which may hinder competitiveness against platforms offering free family tree software. Customers with Family Tree Maker versions from 2008-2019 face challenges importing older file types. After slowing support for the FTM software, Ancestry announced retirement on December 8, 2015, but continued to provide support for those using FTM. MacKiev is slated to release Family Tree Maker version 2024, offering discounted upgrade options to current users. Despite its retirement, the software remains relevant and is periodically updated.