Cannot open word processor files in Microsoft Works (841219)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Works 7.0
  • Microsoft Works 6
  • Microsoft Works Suite 2004
  • Microsoft Works Suite 2003
  • Microsoft Works Suite 2002
  • Microsoft Works Suite 2001

SYMPTOMS

When you try to open a word processor file in one of the products that is listed in the "Applies To" section, you may experience either of the following symptoms:
  • Microsoft Works may stop responding (hang).
  • You may receive an error message that is similar to the following where filename is the name of the file that you are trying to open:
    Works cannot open filename. The file may be in use by another application.

CAUSE

This problem may occur if one or more of the following conditions are true:
  • The file that you are trying to open is damaged.
  • Works does not have the required text converters to open the file.

RESOLUTION

Note Because there are several versions of Microsoft Windows, the following steps may be different on your computer. If they are, see your product documentation to complete these steps. To resolve this issue, follow these steps:
  1. Click Start, point to All Programs, point to Microsoft Works, and then click Microsoft Works Word Processor.
  2. Click File, and then click Open.
  3. In the Open box, locate the folder that contains the file that you want to open.
  4. In the Files of Type box, click Recover Text from Any File (*).
  5. Click the file that you want to open, and then click Open.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:11/11/2004
Keywords:kbprb KB841219 kbAudEndUser
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