1. You put it in the downloads folder then open launcher go to the downloads tab and check the checkbox by the file and click install.
2. You just click on the sims3pack in it’s current location the launcher opens the installer process and installs it that way.
3. You use a 3rd party program like Josh’s 3Viewer that extracts the package file from the Sims3pack file then installs it.

I prefer method 3 which will install all but Object Presets. Those still have to be installed via method 1 or 2.

For package files that are already extracted. You must have the framework installed to use them unless they are sims or lots.
They go in your Mod/Package folder if they are anything but Sims or Lots. Sims go in your SavedSims folder  and Lots go in your Library Folder.

For Presets, Patterns, Objects, Clothes and Hair installed via the launcher they can be found in your DCCache folder in  the following files dcdb0.dbc or dcdb0.ebc or dcdb1.dbc. Sims and Lots are always installed into SavedSims and Library Folders even if you use Method 3 to install them.

Files installed using Method 3 that are put in Mod/Package folder will NOT show up in the launcher Installed Content but  will show up in game without having a * by it. Just like in Sims 2 if you put a file in your bin folder.

Using Method 3 –3Viewer

1. Installing a Single Sims3pack

Open 3Viewer then you will get a first start wizard.

In Save Game Location find your Documents game folder’s path and put it in that box
Like mine is
C:\Users\username\Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3

In Game Data Location (This is the path where you have your game installed)
Put the path of your game installation folder.

I have Copy Sims3packs to download after install uncheck. (No need to clutter up that folder)
Click Next it will ask you if you want to install resource.cfg make sure to tell it NO.

Now it’s setup for use.
This program is for Sims3packs not package files! Use Monkey Installer for them instead.

To install one sims3pack using 3Viewer
Click File\Open and navigate to a sims3pack file. I’m gonna open a sims3pack containing a saved sim

The image slider will show you all the pics inside the sims3pack.
I am hoping later Josh adds a way to extract them but for now you can just view them.

Now if it’s a pattern or CAS preset you’re installing by default 3Viewer will put it in your Mods/Package folder.
You can tell it to prompt you each time you install a sims3pack for a save location by going to Help/View Options
and check Always Prompt Me to Choose Installation Location.

Now we want to go to the Packed Files tab so we can install the sim.

Now you see the file listing on the left side.
You want to select the file with the package extension. I.E. *.package
Once selected go to box labeled Name box and type in the name from the Display name box or anything name you want.

Note: You can use basic copy & paste key shortcuts to copy the filename from the Display Name.

You can also skip this step if you don’t wish to rename the file at all.

Once you type in the package file’s new name click Rename.
You will now see the new renamed package file in the file listing with the name you just given it.

Now all you do is click the round Install button.

Now if you have in options set to prompt you each time for a new save location a small box will pop up.
If not you’re done and can skip the next steps.

If it’s Sims or Lots you’re installing you would just click Install and then you’re done!

For other files such as Patterns or Presets,
On the small box popup make sure both boxes labeled:
Place a Copy in DCBackup & Copy sims3pack to Downloads is unchecked!
Uncheck Standard Installation and  then go to Installation Destination
click the dropdown box and choose Custom. The program will then ask you where
to save the package file.
Navigate to the folder you want to save to then click Install.

That’s it now you’re really done!

2. Installing Multiple Sims3packs.

The Batch Install process is sooo much easier!

Open 3Viewer then  go to File/Batch Install a small window will pop up.
Check the first two boxes and click okay.
Now navigate to the folder full of sims3packs files you want to install.
Click Open and then wait till it’s finish the click Done.

That’s all there is too it!

All files will be name to whatever their sims3pack filename is.
It will add a counter number to the filename so it doesn’t overwrite anything.

If you have Patterns or CAS Presets it puts in them in the Mods/Package folder by default.
You then can organize them into whatever folders you like by doing it yourself or using Monkey Installer.

This works for Sims, Lots, Patterns and CAS Presets.
It does not work for Object Presets those muse be install with the Launcher.