Solved: File locked by both operating system and Excel.
From: John Baughman (john.baughmanREMOVEME_at_REMOVEMEhp.com)
Date: 02/27/04
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Date: Fri, 27 Feb 2004 12:44:24 -0800
Actually, it's one solution.
Note: This solution should work with any version of
Windows that allows you to access the OS at a command
prompt on reboot.
First note the complete path to the file. If it is in My
Documents, the path is usually C:\Documents and
Settings\[username]\My Documents
If it is the Desktop, then it is C:\Documents and
Settings\[username]\Desktop
Next you MUST have the local computer's administrator
password. Now, reboot. Immediately after the hardware
initialization or during the PC logo screen, start
pressing F8. You should see a DOS screen with a menu.
Arrow key down to the prompt for Command Prompt.
On WinXP, you will have to wait for it to boot up loading
a lot of drivers. Otherwise, on Win9* you will be popped
into DOS almost right away.
WinXP: Login as administrator!
Now, type "CD <path to locked Excel file>". Here's an
example:
CD c:\documents and settings\joba\my documents
Now, type "DEL <locked Excel filename>". Here's an example:
DEL myexcelfile.xls
To make sure the file deleted, type "DIR <locked Excel
filename>". An example:
DIR myexcelfile.xls
If you see a listing for the file this solution didn't
work. If you don't, pat yourself on the back then press
CTRL + ALT + DEL (WinXP) or type EXIT then hit enter.
On WinXP, you will see the normal Windows Security dialog
box. Click Shutdown... and follow the normal Restart step.
On Win9*, the system should either shutdown or reboot,
it's been a while since I did the command prompt boot
there.
That's it. Any other suggestions, please let me know.
-John Baughman
Fort Collins
>-----Original Message-----
>I recently had a file appear locked and it opened read-
>only by Ecxel. Nowafter following the advice in
>http://www.contextures.com/xlfaqApp.html#ReadOnly Excel
>says "Excel cannot access '<filename.xls>'. The document
>may be read-only or encrypted." After clicking OK, it
>displays "Cannot access '<filename.xls>'."
>
>If I try to move/delete the file, Windows XP (v2002, SP1)
>says "Cannot delete <filename.xls>: It is being used by
>another person or program. Close any programs that might
>be using the file and try again."
>
>All of this is after repeated reboots, and before and
>after attempting to open the file, immediately after
>rebooting, etc.
>
>Any ideas anyone? Please?
>
>Thanks!
>John Baughman
>Fort Collins, CO
>.
>
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