Help - File Association Not Working - Only One Extension Fails

[baumgrenze]

I run Win 7 Pro x64.

I've tried searching for a solution to a recent minor but irritating problem.

In Windows Explorer I can automatically launch most applications based on the associated file extension. This does not work for the files named "*.skf" which I have associated with a legacy drafting application, Autosketch 9. Other file types in the same folder, e.g., *.doc, open fine.

I appear to have the proper settings in Control Panel as shown in the uploaded image.

What have I done wrong?

thanks

baumgrenze

 

[alphaniner]

What exactly does happen when you open this type of file?

 

[baumgrenze]

If I use Start Search and ask for find the exe and click on it, the program opens.

I search, find, and click on a *.skf file 'nothing' happens, just like in Explorer.

Like other 'legacy' software, the exe is located in the x86 programs folder.

What else should I try?

 

[alphaniner]

There could be multiple executables in the directory. Make sure the association is using the correct one.

Beyond that I have no simple suggestions. In your position I'd dig into the registry and try launching from the command line. It could be that the application requires a non-standard syntax to open a file.

 

[baumgrenze]

I did a little more digging and found a 2/27/07 post in an Autodesk forum for the product with the same problem showing up with XP.

https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autosketch/starting-autosketch-by-clicking-file-name/td-p/1902206

Post 6 suggests this:

I suspect that it is a DDE timing issue.

The standard AS file association uses DDE to launch the file. I have had some
success in the past by deleting the file association and then using Windows
to create a 'new' association. Right-click and select 'Open with' and browse
for the AS executable.
​

I looked in File Associations and didn't see an option for deleting the association, just one to change it to other choices presented. Is this a fundamental difference between XP and Win 7? Can I still delete the association and then reestablish it?

thanks

baumgrenze