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Can't open old Microsoft Works files (.wps) in new Microsoft Works 9

Posted on 2009-05-08

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Last Modified: 2013-12-27

This is my dilemma. I have a customer that we just upgraded to a newer computer system. We transferred all of the data over and installed Microsoft works 9. Her system was getting upgraded from windows 98 to xp. She created everything in the older Microsoft Works (Were not to sure what version she had but I'm guessing it was version 4 or 5) The spreadsheets opened fine in Works 9 but all of the .wps wont open and comes up with The file may be in use by another application, the file format may not be supported by any of the installed converters, or the file may be corrupt. Now I dont think all 30 documents are corrupt, and as for the converters, if none work why is it opening the spreadsheets successfully? Ive already downloaded and installed some converters that said it would work but no changes. I wouldnt even care if it got open in Microsoft Word. Can anyone help? Thanks!

-Bill

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Question by:bLampert

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3 Comments

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Accepted Solution

by:weben74

weben74 earned 500 total points

ID: 243382452009-05-08

If these files where created with Works 4 you will have problems to open with Works 9, look this: http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=kb%3Ben-us%3B940003&x=14&y=16

Here you can find some suggestions about what to make with this files:
http://www.vistaheads.com/forums/microsoft-public-windows-vista-general/210267-how-read-works-4-wps-files-vista-works-9-a.html

I think the most easy, if you can use the old computer is to open these documents and save as rtf files.

Rgds

Expert Comment

by:Miidtowner

ID: 249328112009-07-24

Never forget Wordpad. My solution is - since I don't want to modify my computer as suggested (I don't have the programs anyway) is to open the .wps file with wordpad in the "all files" mode and then cut and paste the intelligible section. This can be pasted to Works 9 or Word or whatever.

Expert Comment

by:Miidtowner

ID: 249955942009-08-01

I have found an even easier way. Download Notepad++ (from filehippo.com) and install it. Locate the troublesome file with Windows Explorer or My Computer and right-click on it. Choos "edit with notepad++" from the drop-down menu. Ignore the numerous "null"s and copy and paste the useful content to a new Works 9 document. Save - it should retain its original formatting.

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