OpenCPN Doesn't Install on MAC

[CaptainKevinM]

I downloaded openCPN for my macbook (Yosemite). It appears to be running directly from the DMG file. I am warned at each startup about running a program from the internet. Also, I can not install any add-on, as they report OpenCPN is not installed.

[bcn]

From the manual:

Mac OS X
Installation OpenCPN on Mac OS X is no different from installing other programs. If a previous version is installed, rename the old version (app) file to avoid overwriting.
The Mac package is a ".dmg" file, and to install OpenCPN, the dmg file has to be opened (it will mount as a virtual device) and the app icon in the opened device window must be dragged and dropped to the application folder.
After that the device window can be closed and the mounted virtual device can be ejected.
You can have a look at this tutorial for general instructions on installing an application on Mac OS X.
If you have a message, that installations are only accepted for programs from qualified developers, go to System Settings / Security, first Tab, and switch to "No Constraints".
After installation switch back, to prevent installation of malware.

[CaptainKevinM]

Yes, I did that.

However, OpenCPN only opens when the virtual drive is mounted... If that drive is unmounted, as the manual states it can be, the icon in the applications folder has a question mark over it. Indicating that it did not install on my machine. It only runs from the virtual drive... or as I stated from the DMG file.

I want Open CPN to actually install on my physical machine so I can install add-ons.

[CarCode]

OpenCPN for Mac OS X should be distributed with the installer and not as DMG. It should include Sparkle also for easy updates.

Gerhard

[CaptainKevinM]

Okay, I may have grabbed the wrong file. Let me do another download and try again.

I'll post back later.

Thank you.

[bcn]

Gerhard,

so please do it - you know how to...
Take responsibility - if you like to do so.

[fogmachine]

If it only runs when you have the DMG mounted then you ran it out of the DMG. After dragging OpenCPN to the Applications folder close and unmount the DMG before starting OpenCPN - that will insure you're running the installed version.

There are other ways to distribute, but using a DMG with the drag/drop is not uncommon for many apps.

[sbfreddie]

Originally Posted by CaptainKevinM

I downloaded openCPN for my macbook (Yosemite). It appears to be running directly from the DMG file. I am warned at each startup about running a program from the internet. Also, I can not install any add-on, as they report OpenCPN is not installed.

Kevin:
If you are still having problems, you may try this trick:
After mounting and opening the dmg, hold the "option" key down while you are dragging the OpenCPN icon to the "Applications" folder. This makes sure that it copies the application instead of just a "pointer to the application".

This is the reason that most developers put an installer in the dmg instead of just the application, because some users don't understand the difference between a pointer to an application and the actual application itself.

Just my 2 cents worth,
Freddie

[CaptainKevinM]

Thank you all. The problem seems to be just as Freddy described, a link to the mounted file was created in the applications folder. Dragging with the option button down solved the issue.

Now, it is working fine!

--Kevin