open .txt download in active instance/window

R

Ramona

When I download text files I have them set so they automatically open in
Excel. However, they always open in a new instance/window. I've tried all 4
possible combinations of the "ignore other applications" and "Windows in
taskbar" options with no change. The options work as far as getting files
opened from Explorer to open in the same window. Any ideas on what to try
next?

I have Office Small Business 2000 with Powerpoint 2003 added. I suspect it
has something to do with the Powerpoint 2003 install as my other computer
without the Powerpoint works fine.

Thanks!

P.S. Setting both options generates the problem I found in another thread
where the file is open but doesn't display and isn't hidden.
 
D

Doug Kanter

Ramona said:
When I download text files I have them set so they automatically open in
Excel. However, they always open in a new instance/window. I've tried
all 4
possible combinations of the "ignore other applications" and "Windows in
taskbar" options with no change. The options work as far as getting files
opened from Explorer to open in the same window. Any ideas on what to
try
next?

I have Office Small Business 2000 with Powerpoint 2003 added. I suspect
it
has something to do with the Powerpoint 2003 install as my other computer
without the Powerpoint works fine.

Thanks!

P.S. Setting both options generates the problem I found in another thread
where the file is open but doesn't display and isn't hidden.
Click to expand...

When you say "set so they automatically open in Excel", how did you do that?
 
R

Ramona

In Windows Explorer I did tools-folder options-register file type and mapped
..txt to Excel.
 
D

Doug Kanter

OK - what I would do is record an Excel macro while you open the file using
the File, Open command, or one of the text import features. Then, place a
custom button on your toolbar and connect it to the macro. This way, when
you need to open that file, you just click the botton, and it'll open in the
window you're already in.
 
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