Works: Converting File Overwrites the Original Document (109135)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Works 2.0
  • Microsoft Works 2.0a
This article was previously published under Q109135

SUMMARY

The file converters in Works 2.0 do not automatically change the extension of the filename when you convert a document. If you save a Works document into a different format, such as text or dBase IV, without changing the name or extension of the document, the original file is converted into the new format. Works does ask if you want to replace the existing file before it overwrites the file.

For example, if you converted a Works Database file such as MYFILE.WDB into a dBase IV format (.DBF), but did not change the name or extension at the time, MYFILE.WDB would be converted into the dBase format. The next time you tried to open MYFILE.WDB, it would open as DATA1.

If there is not already an extension specified when you save the file, Works will add the correct extension automatically.

RESOLUTION

Save the converted file as a Works file using the following steps:

  1. Open the converted file and choose Save As from the File menu.
  2. In the Save File As Type box, select Works <module>, where module is WP, SS, or DB, depending on which tool you are currently using.
  3. In the File Name box, type the name of the original file without an extension.
  4. Choose OK and select Yes to replace the existing file.

MORE INFORMATION

To convert your Works document to another file format, use the following steps:

  1. From the File menu, choose Save As.
  2. In the Save File As Type box, select the appropriate format (for example, dBase III).
  3. In the File Name box, type a new filename without an extension and choose OK.
A copy of the original file is now saved in a separate document with the new file format.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:9/24/2003
Keywords:kbhowto KB109135
©2003 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.