AI offers suggestions - not guaranteed. See if they help you...
"Freezes upon opening in Express Scribe for Mac are often caused by corrupted configuration files, incompatible macOS security settings, or a corrupted installation that simple uninstalls do not fix.
1. Perform a "Clean" Reinstall (Crucial)
Simply moving the app to the trash does not remove the configuration files that are likely causing the freeze.
- Uninstall: Drag the Express Scribe app from the Applications folder to the Trash.
- Delete Preferences/Settings: Open Finder, click Go in the top menu bar, hold down the Option key, and select Library. Look in
Preferences and Application Support for any folders named NCHSoftware or ExpressScribe and delete them.
- Restart your iMac.
- Reinstall: Download a fresh installer from the NCH website and install it again.
2. Bypass Security/Permission Locks
macOS may be blocking the app from initiating properly, causing it to freeze at launch.
- Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security.
- Scroll down to find a message saying "Express Scribe was blocked..." and click "Open Anyway".
- Alternatively, open the app, and if it freezes, check this security panel immediately for a prompt.
3. Clear Hidden "Runaway" Processes
If you have tried opening it multiple times, several instances might be stuck in the background, consuming RAM.
- Open Activity Monitor (search via Spotlight/Cmd+Space).
- Search for "Express Scribe."
- If multiple instances appear, or if one is marked "(Not Responding)," select it and click the X button in the top toolbar to Force Quit.
- Relaunch the app.
4. Check for macOS Compatibility
Ensure you are running a recent version of the software. Express Scribe version 8.09 or later is required for macOS Catalina and later versions. If you are running an older version on a new Mac, it will not function properly.
5. Check Foot Pedal Conflicts
If a USB foot pedal is plugged in, unplug it and attempt to launch the software. A faulty pedal or driver can cause the application to hang during the initial handshake.
If you are still having issues, the NCH forums suggest that some Free versions are actually Pro trials that freeze when the trial period ends. Ensuring a "clean" reinstall (Step 1) is the best way to reset this state. "