MacLinkPlus Deluxe’s simple interface makes it easy to view and convert over 100 different file formats.

At my school, I’m in charge of converting old data files into modern versions that can be opened up in Mac OS X. In particular, I need to open up old AppleWorks 2.1 files from the Apple II days, and WordPerfect 5.0 files from the DOS days. When I try to open them in Microsoft Word, I get a window that says Convert Files, but no matter what I choose, I get a bunch of garbage characters after conversion.

MacLinkPlus Deluxe ($79.99, www.dataviz.com) will let you convert to and from over 100 different file formats, including old file formats from years ago that are long gone today. The app does its magic by including a vast library of translators that let you open, view, print, and convert all sorts of files, including word processing, spreadsheet, database, image, and compressed files.