Convert WST to WS

Understanding the wst and ws file formats

WST files are typically associated with Teletext page files, used for storing teletext data, which was a popular way to broadcast text-based information over television signals. These files contain encoded pages of text and graphics, often used in broadcasting and archiving teletext content.

WS files, on the other hand, are most commonly known as WordStar document files. WordStar was a widely used word processor in the 1980s and early 1990s. WS files contain formatted text, and sometimes basic graphics, created with the WordStar application.

Why convert wst to ws?

Converting a WST file to a WS file may be necessary if you want to edit or repurpose teletext content in a word processor like WordStar, or to preserve teletext data in a more accessible document format.

How to convert wst to ws

There is no direct, one-click converter for WST to WS due to the specialized nature of both formats. However, you can follow these steps:

1. Extract teletext content: Use a teletext viewer or decoder such as VBIT2 Teletext Viewer or Teletext Suite to open the WST file and export the text content.
2. Save as plain text: Export the teletext page as a plain text file (.txt).
3. Convert to WordStar format: Use a text editor that supports legacy formats, or a converter like WordStar Converter (available online or as part of some retro computing communities), to open the text file and save it as a .ws file.

Recommended software for conversion

• VBIT2 Teletext Viewer – For opening and extracting text from WST files.
• Teletext Suite – Another option for viewing and exporting teletext content.
• WordStar Converter – For converting plain text files to WS format.
• LibreOffice – Can open plain text files and, with plugins, export to older formats.

Step-by-step conversion process

1. Open your WST file in VBIT2 Teletext Viewer.
2. Export the teletext page as a .txt file using File → Export → Text.
3. Open the exported .txt file in WordStar Converter or a compatible text editor.
4. Save or export the file as a .ws (WordStar) document using File → Save As → WordStar (*.ws).

Tips and considerations

• Formatting may be lost or require manual adjustment due to differences between teletext and word processor layouts.
• If you have many files, consider automating the process with batch scripts or command-line tools.
• Always verify the output in a WordStar-compatible viewer to ensure content integrity.