I use Developer on the PC. I burned my solution files onto a CD using Adaptec Direct CD with my HP CD-writer 8200.

Here's what happens:

1. I make sure the .usr files are not set to "read only" before I burn the CD. Then I burn the solution files onto a CD.

2. I take the new CD to a different computer and install the solution folder on the hard drive and eject the CD.

3. The newly copied .usr files are always set to read only. The files won't work until I change the .usr file properties to deselect "Read Only."

My experience with CD burners is limited to this one application, but this doesn't sound normal to me... Is this a common occurrence when copying Developer files to a CD?

Any hints or suggestions? Thanks -

Mary Z

That is common problem on PC

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Where is this problem coming from - Developer for PC, the CD writing software, something else? Or is it just one of the mysteries of the universe??

And, by the way, thanks for your quick reply,

Mary Z

It's a property of the OS in that the files from the CD are on a read only medium. When you copy them, that attribute is retained. Right click, slect properties, deselect read only. This can be avoided by compressing the files before they are put onto the CD. When the decompression starts, they must be decompressed to a drive, thus eliminating the problem.

HTH

Old Advance Man

I cannot add anything to that. Well said!

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Originally posted by Old Advance Man:

This can be avoided by compressing the files before they are put onto the CD.

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Pardon my ignorance, but do you mean I need to use a compression program, such as WinZip, to make the files self-extracting before I burn them onto the CD? (My CD-writer software doesn't have any compression options.)

Mary Z

Yes, you put the files into some kind of compression or installation software, such as WinZip, Stuffit, InstallerMaker, Vise, etc. There are many, many different options with different capabilities and features.

Any of them will preserve the attributes of the original files and also make installation easier on the user and make your deliverable look that much more professional.

Thanks for the help. While I've been using FileMaker for 10 years, this is my first real experience distributing outside our agency. Your tip on professionalizing my software "look" is most appreciated.

Best method I have used to get around this is to use an installer program. It also give the user a choice where to put the program (solutions), while making the installation look quite professional. (Add program to start menu, program's menu, put icon on desktop AND add uninstaller)

The one I use is Install Maker by http://www.clickteam.com/English/

It is free!!

FYI: using Win2k you can right-click on the top folder once copied from the CD, then turn of the checkbox for read only. A dialog box will ask if you want to apply this to all sub folder and filers or not. This is much easier than Win98 etc., where you have to select each individual file.

Hope this info is useful.

Check the method used in creating the CD. Creating an "Exact Copy" will write differently than "Creating a Data CD". I suspect the the answer lies in the CD burn options rather than your DB extentions.

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Originally posted by RickK:

Check the method used in creating the CD. Creating an "Exact Copy" will write differently than "Creating a Data CD". I suspect the the answer lies in the CD burn options rather than your DB extentions.

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Sadly no. While it is POSSIBLE that some CD writing software MAY have some kind of functionality like this, I have never seen it.

Using a compression/installation development software first is the best method of preserving file attributes.

I was having the same trouble with the CD burner. I am glad to read a solution. I also thank you for the information about http://www.clickteam.com/English/

It maybe an answer to another problem we are working on. Greatly appreciate your help.

Bev

GibCo

Yes, one of many frustrating issues when used to the mac and going cross-platform for windows. Thanks again for the clickteam solution. Works beautifully, nice installer, cant beat the price!