How to Transfer Simulations from Mac to iPad (Fire Studio 7)
Objective:
This guide explains how to transfer Fire Studio 7 simulation files from an Apple Macintosh computer to an iPad using the macOS Finder. This method replaces the older "iTunes File Sharing" process on newer macOS versions.
Prerequisites:
Mac Computer with your saved simulations.
iPad with Fire Studio 7 Player Edition installed.
USB Lightning or USB-C Charging Cable to connect the devices.
Simulation Files:
For Exported sims: Both
.dcsand.lbrfiles.For Published sims: The single
.dcxfile.
Step 1: Connect Your Devices
Plug your iPad into your Mac using the USB charging cable.
If prompted on the iPad, select "Trust This Computer" and enter your passcode.
Step 2: Open macOS Finder
Open a new Finder window on your Mac.
Look at the left sidebar under the "Locations" section.
Click on your iPad (e.g., "Chief's iPad") to select it.
Step 3: Access the "Files" Tab
With the iPad selected, look at the top menu bar within the main Finder window.
Click on the Files tab.
Note: This may take a moment to load the list of apps.
Scroll down the list until you see Fire Studio 7.
Click the small arrow (>) next to Fire Studio 7 to expand the folder. You should see any existing simulations listed here.
Step 4: Drag and Drop Your Simulations
Locate your simulation files on your Mac (e.g., on your Desktop or in a Documents folder).
Select the files you need:
If you used "Export": You must select BOTH the
.dcsfile and the.lbrfile for the simulation to work.If you used "Publish": Select the single
.dcxfile.
Drag the selected files from your desktop/folder and Drop them directly onto the Fire Studio 7 name (or the file list) in the Finder window.
Step 5: Verify and Launch
The files will copy over immediately (there is usually no progress bar for small files).
Unlock your iPad and open the Fire Studio 7 app.
Your new simulation should now appear in the simulation list, ready to play.
Troubleshooting / FAQ
Q: I transferred the file, but the background is missing on the iPad.
A: This usually happens with "Exported" simulations if you forgot to transfer the .lbr (Library) file.
Fix: Go back to your Mac, find the
.lbrfile that matches your simulation name, and transfer it using the steps above.
Q: Can I edit the simulation on the iPad?
A: No. The iPad app is a Player Edition only. You can view and interact with the simulation, but you cannot edit layers or change the scenario.
Q: I don't see the "Files" tab.
A: Ensure you have selected the iPad in the Locations sidebar, not the standard "Network" or "Remote Disc" options. If you still don't see it, update your macOS to the latest version, as older versions (pre-Catalina) used iTunes instead of Finder.