File Names Truncated When Sending Files in Microsoft Chat (191677)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Chat 2.1 for Windows NT 4.0
  • Microsoft Chat 2.0 for Windows NT 4.0
  • Microsoft Chat 2.1 for Windows 95
  • Microsoft Chat 2.0 for Windows 95
  • Microsoft Chat 2.5 for Windows 95
This article was previously published under Q191677

SYMPTOMS

When you send or receive a file in Microsoft Chat, the file name may be truncated. When you attempt to open the file, you may be prompted for a program with which to open it.

CAUSE

This behavior can occur if the file name of the file is longer than 63 characters when it is sent. The file name, including the extension, is truncated if you send or receive a file that has a file name longer than 63 characters.

RESOLUTION

To work around this issue, use the appropriate method:
  • Rename the file with the correct extension after you receive it.
  • Resend the file with a file name no longer than 63 characters.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Microsoft Chat 2.0, 2.1, and 2.5 for Windows 95 and Microsoft Chat version 2.0 and 2.1 for Windows NT 4.0.

MORE INFORMATION

In Windows, you can create file names that are up to 100 characters with a three character extension. However, Microsoft Chat limits file names to 63 characters.

The following file names are examples of how file names are truncated by Microsoft Chat:

66_Character_file_name_+_3_Character_Extension78501234567860123
63_Character_file_name_+_3_Character_Extension78501234567860123
60_Character_file_name_+_3_Character_Extension78501234567860.tx
59_Character_file_name_+_3_Character_Extension7850123456789.txt

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:6/24/2004
Keywords:kbprb KB191677
©2004 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.