Data Files Without Extensions Cause Command-Line Fault

• Microsoft Windows operating system versions 3.1, 3.11

SYMPTOMS

Windows-based applications cannot open data files without extensions when you use the Program Manager's or File Manager's Run command or when you use the Command Line box in Program Item Properties.

If you attempt to open a data file without an extension, the application will automatically try and open the data file with the application's default extension, and will stop with a message about the file missing.

For example, if you try and open a data file called TEST in Write, then Write display the following error message:

   C:\TEST.WRI
   File not Found

   Please verify that the correct path and filename are given.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem:

• Make sure the data file has an extension. It does not need to be the application's default extension.
• Run the application first and then open the data file without extension through the File menu's Open command.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Windows version 3.1. We are researching this problem and will post new information here as it becomes available.