EndNote X9 and Mac: compatibility issue

EndNote X9.2 is not compatible with the new Mac OS (Catalina).

Mac users should download and install EndNote’s most recent program update, version X9.3.1, BEFORE installing the new OS from Apple.

If you are currently running an older version of EndNote(X8 or earlier), please update to the new version, X9.3.1 immediately.

Unfortunately, even with this new update from EndNote, you may still encounter some issues.

EndNote has not yet released X9.3.1 for PCs, and so when sending EndNote libraries from Macs to PCs, .enlx files will open on PCs without any information in them. EndNote is aware of this issue and is currently working on an update for PCs so they will be compatible with Macs.

In the meantime, if you need to transfer an Endnote library from a Mac to a PC, here are two methods you can try:

Option 1:

Use My EndNote Web as a go-between for Macs and PCs (suggested by Endnote).

Option 2:

Send your Endnote Library as an RIS file (steps follow below). If you choose this method, note that you will lose any groups created, any notes added, and any attachments in your library.

How to send an RIS file from EndNote:

  1. Select File.
  2. From the drop-down menu, select Export.
  3. Save as Type: From the pull-down menu select: text file (.txt).
  4. Output Style: From the pull-down menu, select RefMan (RIS) Export.
    ⇒ If you do not see RefMan (RIS) Export on the list, click on Select another style and another box will pop up. You will be able to scroll down until you see RefMan (RIS) and then double-click to select it.
  5. Click Save.
  6. You can now attach this file to an email and send your library.
  7. To import the file on a PC, make sure you select RefMan (RIS) as the import option. Otherwise, the file will not import correctly.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your librarian.

Published October 24, 2019.