FIX: Cannot Set Breakpoint if Project Contains \C++\ in Path

The information in this article applies to:

• The integrated debugger, included with: Microsoft Visual C++, 32-bit Edition, version 2.0 on the following platforms: x86, MIPS, Alpha, Power PC

SYMPTOMS

The debugger is unable to set breakpoints when you use the Visual C++ integrated debugger to debug a project located in a directory that contains non-alphanumeric characters (for example, a path that contains \C++\) -- which is a directory name supported by the Windows NT File System (NTFS).

It is possible to set a breakpoint in a source file, but attempting to start a debug session generates this error message:

• The breakpoint "{,test.cpp,}.linenum" cannot be set

CAUSE

The integrated debugger can't handle file names supported only on NTFS.

RESOLUTION

Avoid the use of NTFS-specific file names or directory names.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a bug in the Microsoft products listed at the beginning of this article. This problem was fixed in Microsoft Visual C++, 32-bit Edition, version 4.0.

MORE INFORMATION

Steps to Reproduce Problem

1. Create an MFC AppWizard project. When placing the project in a directory, give a directory name that contains special characters (for example, C++).

2. Build the project for debug mode.

3. Place a breakpoint on a line of code in your project.

4. Press the F5 key. A dialog box should appear that reads, "The breakpoint ... cannot be set."