Chart Conversion to SFv6/v7 Format

This version of Solar Fire uses a chart file format that is different from that of version 5 and earlier. This new file format has advantages over the old format, but it is not compatible with earlier versions. However, this version of Solar Fire is able to read all older version chart files, and is also able to save chart files to the SFv5 or SFv3/4 file format if required.

However, when saving to a SFv5 or earlier version chart file, life events are not saved. Also, when saving to a SFv3/4 chart file, any chart rating and source notes that you have entered, along with the chart event type or gender are not saved, and it is not possible to save any charts other than natal types charts.

In the "Preferences" dialog, "Charts" tab...

•Always automatically convert older charts – When this option is selected, any time that you select an old version chart file (SFv1/2/3/4/5) to open, it will automatically be converted into a new version chart file, and a backup copy of the old version file will be stored into the OLDCHART subfolder of the main Solar Fire Charts folder. This option is recommended if you do not need to maintain compatibility with other software that is unable to read the new Solar Fire chart file format.

•Prompt me whether or not to convert each older chart file - When this option is selected, any time that you select an old version chart file (SFv1/2/3/4/5) to open, you will be prompted whether or not allow it to be converted into a new version chart file. If you consent, then it is converted and a backup copy of the old version file will be stored into the OLDCHART subfolder of the main Solar Fire Chart folder. If you do not consent, then it is left unchanged.

•Never convert – keep all older format chart files – When this option is selected, any old version chart file that you open remains unchanged. However, this means that you will not have the advantages of the new chart file format features.