File Manager Truncates Long File Names Containing Spaces

• Microsoft Windows NT Workstation versions 3.5 and 3.51
• Microsoft Windows NT Server versions 3.5 and 3.51

SYMPTOMS

When you use File Manager in Windows NT, and are working with files with long names that contain spaces, those names may in some cases be displayed in a truncated format.

CAUSE

The parser routine being used truncates file names after the last space (" ") found in long file names. File Manager displays this truncated file name. The truncated file name is used to find approximate matches of all similar file names for a length up to the space where the break occurs. The resulting match list contains all matching file names, including file names listed in 8.3 format.

STEPS TO REPRODUCE

1. Open File Manager and select a long file name containing spaces.

   for example, the name "test 123 456 789.txt" is displayed as "test 123
   456".

RESOLUTION

This problem has been resolved in a hotfix to the file NTlanui.dll. Use of this fix resolves the display problem so that the complete file name will be displayed. Note, however, that this fix may have the following side effect: After you install it, Windows NT may underreport the number of files that are open. This occurs because the request for a more detailed match (using the long file name) may result in no matches against a file list in cases where the file is represented in 8.3 format.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Windows NT version 3.51. A supported fix is now available, but is not fully regression-tested and should be applied only to systems experiencing this specific problem. Unless you are severely impacted by this specific problem, Microsoft recommends that you wait for the service pack release containing this fix. Contact Microsoft Product Support Services for more information.