Understanding GAU Issues
Issues Opening GAU Files
Microsoft Flight Simulator is Not Installed
When you double-click your GAU file, you may see a dialog box from your operating system stating that it "Cannot Open This File Type". If this is the case, it's usually due to the fact that you do not have Microsoft Flight Simulator for %%os%% installed on your computer. Your operating system cannot associate your GAU with Microsoft Flight Simulator, so double-clicking the file won't work.
Tip: When you have another program installed that you know will open your GAU, you can select it from the other programs listed (see "Show Apps").
Incorrect Microsoft Flight Simulator Version
Your Flight Simulator Gauge File file is incompatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator because you might have the wrong version installed. If you do not have the proper version Microsoft Flight Simulator (or any of the other programs listed above), you may need to try downloading a different version of it, or one of the other software applications listed above. The primary cause of this problem is that your Flight Simulator Gauge File file was created by a different (newer) version of Microsoft Flight Simulator than what's installed.
Tip: If you right-click on your GAU file, then select "Properties" (Windows) or "Get Info" (Mac), you can obtain hints about what version you need.
Summary: Not having the right Microsoft Flight Simulator version on your computer can cause problems opening GAU files.
Other GAU File Issues
Even with the correct version of Microsoft Flight Simulator installed, you can still experience difficulties opening GAUs. If you are still having problems opening GAU files, there may be other issues that are preventing you from opening these files. Problems unrelated to software:
- Invalid GAU file references in the Windows Registry (the "phonebook" of the Windows Operating System)
- Corruption of the GAU file description inside the Registry
- Microsoft Flight Simulator or another GAU application experienced a flawed installation
- Your GAU file is corrupted (issues with your Flight Simulator Gauge File file itself)
- Malware-tainted GAU file can't be opened
- Drivers associated with GAU software need to be updated
- Your PC doesn’t have enough available resources to open the Flight Simulator Gauge File file
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