InstallShield installer archive
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| − | '''InstallShield installer archive''' is what we're calling the format of the <code> | + | '''InstallShield installer archive''' is what we're calling the format of the <code>_inst32i.ex_</code> file included in many Windows software distributions that use the [[InstallShield]] installation software. Another filename used by the format is <code>_inst16.ex_</code>. Rarely, filenames <code>_inst32a.ex_</code> (related to Windows NT for DEC Alpha) and <code>_inst32m.ex_</code> (MIPS) may be found. |
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| + | It uses [[PKWARE DCL Implode]] compression. | ||
== Disambiguation == | == Disambiguation == | ||
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== Discussion == | == Discussion == | ||
| − | Based on unconfirmed information, the 16-bit | + | Based on unconfirmed information, the 16-bit <code>setup.exe</code> program detects the user's platform, and extracts the appropriate platform-specific installer programs from (e.g.) <code>_inst32i.ex_</code>. |
== Identification == | == Identification == | ||
Revision as of 21:03, 14 January 2023
InstallShield installer archive is what we're calling the format of the _inst32i.ex_ file included in many Windows software distributions that use the InstallShield installation software. Another filename used by the format is _inst16.ex_. Rarely, filenames _inst32a.ex_ (related to Windows NT for DEC Alpha) and _inst32m.ex_ (MIPS) may be found.
It uses PKWARE DCL Implode compression.
Contents |
Disambiguation
It is not to be confused with InstallShield CAB, InstallShield Z, or MS-DOS installation compression.
Discussion
Based on unconfirmed information, the 16-bit setup.exe program detects the user's platform, and extracts the appropriate platform-specific installer programs from (e.g.) _inst32i.ex_.
Identification
Files begin with bytes 2a ab 79 d8.
At offset 8 is the message "Copyright (c) 1990-1995 Stirling Technologies, Inc. All Rights Reserve".
Sample files
- Examples of software with such a file: [1], [2], [3]
- https://telparia.com/fileFormatSamples/archive/installShieldInstallerArchive/
Links
- FILExt page about the ??_ file extension pattern (Look for "InstallShield")
