Norman writes:

<<Can someone please explain what a runtime error is?>>

It happens when a program looks for and can't find a common file. Runtime
files, like DLL's, are part of a library of common files which are called
on by various programs written in that particular computer language (Visual
C++ or whatever).  If the particular file is either missing, or the wrong
version, or corrupted, you'll get that message, and the program you're
trying to open may crash.  At least, that's my understanding.  Perhaps one
of our programmers might be able to expand on that.

   <<The text states "runtime error.  program
C:\WINDOWS\EXPLORER.EXE.  abnorman program termination".  After clicking
OK, I'm returned to my desktop without icons and system tray.  I have to
ctrl/alt/delete to reboot.>>

With luck, you may be able to fix the problem by reinstalling the offending
program---it may contain the missing Runtime file.  Or you might have to
reinstall VB 5 or 6 or whichever version of VB the program needs. Later
versions are generally backwards-compatible.  I haven't looked, but I'd
think you could get this from the Microsoft site.  Or a registry
restoration might help.

    <<do I get the blame again for doing strange things to my PC and not
knowing what it was?>>

Of course.  Don't we all?  You don't think Microsoft could possibly get it
wrong, do you?

Don Penlington





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