Mac OS X Quick Look: Install the plugin
Apple has added the Quick Look feature since the update to Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard. By installing different plugins, you can expand the range of functions. We show you how this works in this practical tip.
Mac OS X: Install the Quick Look plugin
After you have downloaded a Quick-Look plugin, you will usually receive it in a ZIP file. Unzip it to get the XXX.qlgenerator file.
- You can install a Quick Look plugin in two different ways: either for all users or just for yourself.
- If you only want to install it for yourself, you have to move the qlgenerator file to the "~ / Library / QuickLook" folder. The "~" stands for your personal user folder.
- If you want the plugin to be usable by all users, you have to move it to the "/ Library / QuickLook" folder. Administrator rights are required for this.
- Both library folders have been hidden since OS X 10.7. To get to your personal library folder, open a Finder window. Hold down the alt key and click on "Go" in the menu bar and select the item "Library". Then go to the QuickLook folder or create a new one. Now all you have to do is copy the qlgenerator file.
- You can only make the cross-system library folder visible with a terminal command ("chflags nohidden ~ / Library") or with programs such as "HideSwitch". You can find more detailed information in this practical tip. Then copy the qlgenerator file into the "QuickLook" folder.
Read also how you can display system files in the Finder.