Convert MTT to CTT

Understanding MTT and CTT file formats

MTT files are typically associated with Microsoft Translator Toolkit, a tool used for managing and storing translation memories and glossaries. These files contain translation data, often in a proprietary or structured text format.

CTT files, on the other hand, are commonly known as Messenger Contact List files used by Microsoft Messenger for storing contact information. However, in some translation contexts, CTT may refer to Compendium Translation Table files, which are used for storing translation memory data in a format compatible with certain CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) tools.

How to convert MTT to CTT

Direct conversion between MTT and CTT is not widely supported by mainstream software, as these formats serve different purposes. If you are working within the translation industry and need to convert translation memory data from MTT to CTT (Compendium Translation Table), you will likely need to:

• Export the translation memory from the Microsoft Translator Toolkit as a standard format such as TMX (Translation Memory eXchange).
• Use a CAT tool or a specialized converter to import the TMX file and export it as a CTT file.

Recommended software for conversion

The best approach is to use OmegaT, a free and open-source CAT tool that supports both TMX and CTT formats. Here’s how you can perform the conversion:

1. In Microsoft Translator Toolkit, export your translation memory as a TMX file.
2. Open OmegaT and create a new project.
3. Import the TMX file into OmegaT’s tm folder.
4. Use OmegaT’s export function to save the translation memory as a CTT file.

Alternatively, you can use Okapi Framework’s Rainbow tool, which also supports various translation memory conversions.

Summary

While there is no direct one-step converter for MTT to CTT, using an intermediate format like TMX and a CAT tool such as OmegaT or Okapi Rainbow provides a reliable workflow for this conversion.