MXL5 Err Msg: "Run-time Error..." with Shell Example

• Microsoft Excel for the Macintosh, versions 5.0, 5.0a

SYMPTOMS

On page 210 of the "Visual Basic User's Guide," the Shell example for the Macintosh generates the following error message when you run it in Microsoft Excel version 5.0 for the Macintosh:

   Run-time error 53:
   File not found

   Shell "Microsoft Word"
   WordChannel = DDEInitiate("Microsoft Word", "HD1:Documents:EB_White")

CAUSE

The code above starts Microsoft Word and establishes a DDE channel to the file EB_White. The Shell line, which starts Microsoft Word, causes the error message.

WORKAROUND

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   Sub Open_Word()
      Shell MacID("MSWD")
   End Sub

   NOTE: "MSWD" in the Shell line must be typed in uppercase letters.

   -or-

   Sub Open_Word()
      Shell "Macintosh HD:Microsoft Word:Microsoft Word"
   End Sub

   The above line works because the path to the application file has been
   included. Keep in mind that the path will vary depending on where
   Microsoft Word is installed.