Delete EXD files
Problem
While using TOS+, You receive an error messages like the following:
- Can't load Picture: Failure to create Picture area
- Object library invalid or contains references to object definitions that could not be found.
Cause
Microsoft updates will often invalidate existing .EXD files, thus creating problems with workbooks.
Solution
Delete the EXD files. It is safe to delete the EXD files because they will be recreated automatically the next time they are required. Note that some EXD files can be hidden files on your Hard Disk.
Find .EXD files on your Hard Disk
If you would like to see a list of the EXD files before deleting them as explained below, enter this command in an Elevated Command Prompt:
DIR /S /A:H /A:-H *.EXD
DELETE the .exd files on your Hard Disk
WARNING: You can do harm to your computer if you mistype the command below.
We take no responsibility for your typos!
- Exit all Office programs (if any are open!)
- Open an Elevated Command Prompt Start > All Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt (don't know how?).
- Type the following commands (not case sensitive), and press Enter. This will bring us to the Root folder:
- :
CD \
- :
- Then enter this command to seek & destroy .exd files. Don't mistype this!
- :
DEL /S /A:H /A:-H *.EXD - : After the files have been deleted, dismiss the Command Prompt dialog box by either (a) clicking the X button in the dialog box top right corner or (b) typing EXIT at the command prompt and pressing Enter.
- :
- Reboot your system, open Excel and load the Sheet.
Command Line options overview
Explanation of the arguments for the DEL (delete) and DIR (directory listing) commands:
- /S includes files in the specified directory shown at the prompt and all sub-directories.
- /A:H includes files with the attribute called "hidden."
- Some of the EXD files may be hidden, that is, they usually are not displayed when you search for files.
- /A:-H includes files that are not hidden.
- *.EXD includes all files with the EXD extension.
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