NB File Extension

What is NB file?

NB is a file format associated with Mathematica software developed by Wolfram Research. NB is an output file used for storing computation results. NB files are similar to spreadsheet documents and can contain images, audio data, mathematical functions, or references to external resources. NB files store information in plain text. NB data can accessed interactively using Mathematica notebook viewer. That data can be edited and manipulated.

Results

Mathematica can be used to perform advanced mathematical computations. It supports such data as images, graphs, or audio data. Mathematica can be used to generate such structures as fractals based on some equations or calculate audio signal correlations. NB notebooks can be exported to other formats. DefaultStyles.NB is the default NB files format.

Programs which support NB file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support NB files. Files with NB extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 07/31/2023

How to open file with NB extension?

Problems with accessing NB may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with NB files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install Mathematica

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening NB files is that no program that can handle NB files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Mathematica or one to the listed programs: CDF Player, Wolfram Research Mathematica, Wolfram CDF Player. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support NB files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download Mathematica installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Wolfram Research, Inc. website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Mathematica

If the problems with opening NB files still occur even after installing Mathematica, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Mathematica is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that Mathematica cannot handle files with NB may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Mathematica should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open NB files to Mathematica

After installing Mathematica (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open NB files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the NB file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Mathematica is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open NB files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with NB extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Mathematica and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with NB extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the NB file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the NB file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the NB file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the NB file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. NB file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic NB file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with NB extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Mathematica Notebook file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Mathematica

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support NB files. Close all running programs and try opening the NB file.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Mathematica Notebook files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with NB files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the NB file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on NB file.