WD6X: GetProfileString() Returns Invalid Path

• Microsoft Word for the Macintosh, version 6.0

SYMPTOMS

Using the GetProfileString$() function to return a path setting in the Word Settings (6) file results in a path that contains "garbage" (corrupted) characters or symbols. For example, the following sample macro, which retrieves the path setting for the Templates directory, returns garbage text:

   Sub MAIN
      a$=GetProfileString$("Microsoft Word", "USER-DOT-PATH")
      MsgBox a$
   End Sub

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CAUSE

When retrieving predefined file path settings in the Microsoft Word section of the Word Settings (6) file, Word makes a second call to the settings file, and the incorrect information is returned. The problem, which occurs when reading the Word Settings (6) file when using the GetProfileString$() function, is a known problem.

RESOLUTION

To avoid returning unusable information, use the GetPrivateProfileString$() function. The GetPrivateProfileString$() function returns a setting in a settings file that you specify, for example:

   Sub MAIN
      a$=GetPrivateProfileString$("Microsoft Word", "USER-DOT-PATH", \
      "Word Settings (6)")
      MsgBox a$
   End Sub

MORE INFORMATION

Predefined file path settings in the Microsoft Word section of the Word Settings (6) file are those that are set in the File Locations tab. (To locate this option, click Options on the Tools menu.) Settings other than "User Options" can only be returned by macro functions if they are first set in the File Locations tab.