Figure 26
Moving the Error Message revealed that the process stopped at Individual 358. The normal process would be to run the Control (CTRL) + Alt + C (CA+C) File Compression utility would be run in Version 16 on this Family File, from any Family Page, and the CTRL+ALT+SHFT (Shift) + UpArrow (CAS+UpArrow) File Checker Utilitie would be run. In this case, there were NO Errors. At this point, since there are no errors in the file, the need was to Identify the Individual #358. From Version 16, a GEDCOM file would need to be created to Identify that Individual. The File, Export File, Entire File and selecting a GEDCOM (GED) formatted file was created. Opening the GEDCOM file in a word processor, using the Find Command, and entering 358, identified that individual.
Figure 28
(note: there is no Figure 27)
For the sake of privacy, the names are not on this screen. Reopening Version 16, a Family Group Sheet for that individual should be printed. Deleting that Individual from the Version 16 Family File. This file was then re-opened in Version 2009. Reentering the data from the Version 16 Family Group Sheet completed the import of that file.
The cause of this record (Individual information) is unknown by this user.
Russ,
ReplyDeleteIn v.16 I go to edit, then find individual, and then I use reference # to find the individual.
Does this not work in your example?
Colleen
Colleen,
ReplyDeleteI think that works if you have the Automatic Reference Number (File, Preference) turned ON.
Thank you for the reminder.
Russ
Colleen,
ReplyDeleteI have confirmed and updated this blog entry to confirm your suggestion. Thank you.
Russ
Thanks so much for all you help, Russ. You've helped me so many times with 2008 and 2009. I really look forward to your blog suggestions and help you give us.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing all your knowledge and experiences with FTM.
Colleen
This is stupid. I want FTM to resolve my problrem. I am not a computer geek. I bought FTM 2010, and I expect to be able to import my FTM 2005 files seamlessly and not stop at individual 402 and expect me to follow some exotic instructions. I expect FTM to do it for me. Is that wrong?
ReplyDeleteRay,
ReplyDeleteIt will and does import seamlessly from Version 2005 into 2010.
In Version 2005, Please go to any Family Page and run these two Utilities:
CTRL+ALT+C = FileCompression
CTRL+ALT+SHFT+UpArrow = FileChecker
Are there any Errors?
There may be some errors in your 2005 file that is keeping the file from importing. These two utilities should resolve this or point to the problem.
Russ
I agree with Ray. This is stupid. I called and got no help. They make a program (2010) that is not capatable with their own program (2005). I took the stupid thing back to the store and got my money back.
ReplyDeleteGeorge - Can not agree with you. I have imported 5 family files from Version 2005 and earlier versions and older versions into 2010.
ReplyDeletePlease provide me with some details and I will help you.
Russ
Russ,
ReplyDeleteI am afraid to buy 2010 because of all the issues I have read about with Windows 7, 64 bit.
I have FTM 16 and I am getting the window that says there is a resolution online; however, I can't get the driver or whatever to run FTM 16 in Windows 7. Can you help me?
Ann
Ann,
ReplyDeleteNo problems with Version 2010 and Windows7 I even installed the Family Archive Viewer, version 11 on my Windows 7 64 bit PC.
What is the problem with Version 16? What window is telling you there is a resolution online? Are you having a problem with Version 16? If so, what is it?
Thank you,
Russ
I can't get my older version files to load either. Tried their goofy 'fixes'. Ready to dump FTW 2010.
ReplyDeleteGetting both of these errors"
The given key was not present in Dictionary along with the Unknown error.
Since mine does not go past user 0, searching on an individual is of no use (approx 5000 people in the old database).
Betty,
ReplyDeleteWhat version of Family Tree Maker were you using?
What 'goofy fixes' are you talking about. There is only ONE thing that you might consider, if you were using Version 16 or earlier, that that is CTRL+ALT+C.
If you do a CTRL+ALT+SHFT+UpArrow, are there any errors?
What Error messages are you seeing? And when are you seeing them. What you posted doesn't look like any error message that I have seen from Family Tree Maker.
Thank you,
Russ
I have Version 16 and bought 2010. When I attempted to save the FBC file to my external it just wouldn't go. Still getting the error msg that could not be imported - may be in use or maybe corrupt. I tried your two tricks and got no errors but now I have a compressed back up that I can't seem to put on the exgternal so I can move it over. This sucks. I am getting nervous that 15 years of work may be down the tubes.
ReplyDeleteAnonymous
ReplyDeleteWhat is the EXACT Error Message that you are receiving. What does "it just wouldn't go" mean?
Thank you,
Russ
Message says something like: The file Cannot be imported - it may be in use by another program program or may be corrupt or may not contain any data. If open in another program try closing and reimporting." It seems to start but within one/two seconds I get this message. IT IS WONDERFUL THAT YOU ARE HELPING B/C ANCESTRY.COM DOESN'T SEEM TO CARE ABOUT ITS EARLY FAITHFUL USERS! KATHY - nj
ReplyDeleteKathy (in NJ) ... me too.
ReplyDeleteJust to make sure, you are trying to Open the FBC file, with Version 16 when you receive that error message.
Please reboot your PC and make sure that your External Drive is powered down also. Then bring them back up.
Now, open Version 16, and do a File, Restore from Back Up, selecting the FBC file from the External Drive.
If it does not open, as it should, creating a New Family File, what version of Windows are you using?
Russ
No - I have Version 16 FTM running on my desktop. KI bought 2010 and want to move datea to my laptop. I have an external Free Agent and I backed up the FTW file to that drive and am trying to import the data from it to the 2010 version on the laptop. The 16 version was working fine on the desktop PC.
ReplyDeleteSorry - forgot to say I am running Vista 32 bit. I may not be able to respond right away - have to go out and shovel!
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteAs this Blog suggests, Version 2010 will NOT open a FBC file. Copy the FTW file (NOT the FBK file) from your Desktop to the External Drive.
Now, on the Laptop, open Version 2010, and Import the Exiting FTW file into Version 2010.
Version 2010 does NOT recognize a FBC file but it WILL open the FTW file, from the Free Agent Drive.
Russ
I am sorry for not being clear. Here is the string for the file I am trying to import - it is not the FBC file. F:\Seagate Backup\BREHM FTM.FTW
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteThat is not a back up file.
What I am guessing is the filename.
Please use Windows Explorer and Rename that file to
brehm.ftw
Then, in 2010, click on File, Open, and select that file. It will create a new, version 2010 file.
brehm.ftm
Russ
OK - it didn't work. Same result, same error msg. I note that the size of the file is 22. MB. Isn't that too small to be an entire file. Maybe there is no data there to capture. When I am creating a back-up file on the version 16, I have the external plugged in and select that drive (F). It takes probably 30 seconds to create the back-up. Does that sound right? I also tried importing from the CD back-up. I am nervous that maybe my back-ups never existed. I have a lot invested in this and if I don't have a back-up, I am in trouble!
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteCopy the FTW file from that external drive. Paste it onto the Hard Drive on your Laptop. Then see what happens. This may be a Sharing issue.
Russ
sorry to say - same result - same error msg. What did you think about the size of that file? Isnt' it kind of small? I hope others are benefiting from your trouble shooting.
ReplyDeleteSorry - that did not work either. Does the size of the file sound OK?
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDelete22 MB isn't bad.
Can you create a New Family File with 2010? We'll come back to this in a minute
Did you follow the Steps outlined in this Blog Entry? The wording in what you gave me as the Error Message is exactly the same of this Blog. Did you see the 2nd window that is in Figure 26?
Russ
My error message is a little different. Mine says: The file could not be imported. It may be in use by another program, it may be corrupt, or it may not contain any data. If it is open in another program, close it and try importing again. I have done this numerous times and have rebooted as well.
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeletePlease follow the steps outlined above, starting with running the Two Utilities listed.
Again, this still may be a Sharing issue. Did you try to Open that file, AFTER you put that file on the Hard Drive of the Computer in question?
Russ
In the interim, I thought I would try to back up the files again. Since I did those tests yesterday the file is now a FBC file and I cannot create another FTW backup. Can I undo that?
ReplyDeleteI ran the two utilities - they did not respond with any identified error. Now the back up that is created is an FBC file. When I attempt to open the file, it asks me to identify what I want to open it with - FTM is not on the list and when I browse to it, I get lost - not sure what to do next.
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteWhy can't you make another Back Up?
Can you do a File, Restore from Back Up, with Version 16, on the Desktop Computer?
Can you run those two utilities on that file? Are there any Error Messages?
Russ
I kept trying to open it from the hard drive. I got it to associate with 2010 but then got a message that the file (brehm.ftw) is not a value WIN32 application.
ReplyDeleteNow when I try to make another back up the file that is created is an FBC (b/c I ran those utilities that compressed the file!). I think you said that 2010 cannot convert an FBC to 2010. Did you see my message that I ran those utilities. I can try to restore from back up but I am getting sooooooooooooonervous about losing my data. I have been working on family tree for 15-20 years. Any suggestions. Since I now have spent an entire day on this, do yo0u tihnk I would have been luck buying a 2009 or 2008 version. I am going away for March and wanted to work on this on laptop.
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeletePlease provide some details.
1) Can you create a New Test file from the Plan Screen?
2) I know what "associate with" does, but do NOT know what you were doing when you received that Error Message.
3) Did you click on the Plan Workspace, New Tree tab, Import a tree from an existing File Where you would select that FTW file.
Russ
Kathy,
ReplyDeleteNo, you do NOT want to get 2008 nor 2010.
Were there any Errors when you did the CTRL+ALT+SHFT+UpArrow?
Russ
Is is possible for me to call you? I don't see a Plan Workspace pulldown. I see the Plan tab. I was able to create a fake tree. The error message I gave you is what comes up when I am in 2010 and attempt to export (it's the middle choice) I select import, browse to the Free Agent External DRive, and select the FTW file and click continue and get that message I told you about.
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteThe Plan Workspace is the first Tab at the top of the first Version 2010 screen that you see when you open the program.
You are NOT trying to Export the file, but Importing a tree from an existing file.
Do you have Skype?
Russ
My first tab says Plan - I don't see the term Workspace. I meant import. I heard of it SKYPE - what is it? I have to go out for a while.
ReplyDeleteBut I do have unlimited long distance on my hard wired phone. Can I call you later?
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteYou are right, the term Workspace is not there. Each of those buttons, to the Right of Plan, are Workspaces.
So, from the Plan Workspace, and the New Tree Tab, (a little lower on that screen) did you then Import and Existing File, selecting that FTW file?
Russ
Yes, that's what I did. Probably 20+ times by now - but I just noticed that when I use browse to find the folder, I select the file to import shows and it shows the the FTW file from the exgternal drive but in the file location area it states freeagent, brehm.ftm. Is that an issue?
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteAre you able to open that brehm.ftm file?
It should also be on the Plan Screen, Current Tree screen. It should be listed in the RH Panel, at the top of that panel, above the Web Dashboard.
Russ
If I try to open any file it asks me to establish file association. I don't understand your second Q. Where is web dashboard? What is the "it" you are referring to?
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteOn the Plan Workspace, the Right Panel has a list of files and just below that is the Web Dashboard.
Is it possible, that you already have your Family File Open in Version 2010?
I do not know why you would see a file association error message when you are opening a Family Tree Maker file from within Family Tree Maker Version 2010.
Russ
I was not in FTM when I got the file association error. I thought you asked me to try to open the file from explorer! The Brehm. ftm file is not on the RH screen. The only thing that is there is the new tree I made just to be sure it was working. I have since tried to put the back-up (from the external) into m y documents folder FTM. When I try to iport that folder I get a n error message about a key.
ReplyDeleteI was searching around for answers on the familytreemaker.com/support site. Do you think I should try to download the 2005 FTM? Will the fact that I compressed my version 16 affect this. What harm could come by trying this since I seem to have hit a brick wall
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteSorry for the confusion.
Again, Version 2010 can NOT open a Back Up file (FBC) from an earlier version of Family Tree Maker.
If you mean by "back up" as a copy of the FTW file, then you can Import an Existing file and select that FTW file.
Does that work?
Russ
Kathy,
ReplyDeleteNo, you do NOT need to do that, AS I thought you said that you Copied the FTW file to your External Drive. If that is right, then just click on the Import an Existing file in 2010 and select the FTW file on your External Drive.
Russ
Russ
ReplyDeleteI assume you are probably answering many strings at once but we have covered this territory. I have attempted that many times. see my earlier posts. I apologize if I am not explaining this clearly but I feel like I am going in circles. I get that error msg about not being able to import b/c another prgroam is running, it is corrupt or do data is there. I do select the brehm.ftw file to import (shows as f:seagatebackup.brehm) and that it is an FTW file, but as soon as I click "continue" that error message pops up.
Kathy,
ReplyDeleteTell me, how this can be. You have a File, on an External Drive. No other computer is attached to that External Drive. Right?
You click on Import, select that FTW file, and you see that error message.
Sorry, it doesn't make any sense.
You copied that file to your Hard Drive, as I suggested, right?
And the SAME thing happens, right?
Is that External Drive Directly connected to this computer?
If you right click on that FTW file, is it marked as Read-Only in the property menu?
Do you have Norton on that computer?
Russ
Would it be possible to talk with you tomorrow - My dime? I am going away for the month of March and would like to have this data on my laptop.
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeletePerhaps.
Please take a minute to answer my questions. WE are missing something really simple here. This is NOT a Family Tree Maker issue. It is something on your computer and I am trying to determine what that might be.
Thank you,
Russ
Responses in order of your Q.
ReplyDeleteThe external is hooked up to the laptop. I keep it hooked up all the time, it runs a nightly backup.
When I click import, browse and select that file from either the external or hte hardrive, I get that message. I have FIOS security system - no NOrton's. When I right click, it is NOT marked as read only. I have to head to bed for the night. HOpe to resume tomorrow AM thanks
What about fact that I compressed this file and now on the desktop PC it is a FBC file. I have the FTW file from earlier but now I can't make another copy of the FTW file.
Kathy,
ReplyDeleteThank you.
The CA+C has nothing to do with this. The CA+C is a maintenance tool for that file and updates the FTW file.
I think you may be a little confused here. A FBC file, is a Compressed Back Up file. Version 2010 will NOT open an FBC file. So, you can ignore the FBC file.
The two Utilities that I asked you to run earlier, the CTRL+ALT+C does some maintenance and Compresses the file but does NOT change the format of that file.
The CTRL+ALT+SHJFT+UpArrow, which I asked you do to, would have reported any Errors when it completes that process. As I recall, you didn't have any errors. Both of these were to be done on your other computer with Version 16.
If there were NO Errors, then I suggested that you Copy that file to your External Drive, then move that External Drive to your Laptop and Open that file on your Laptop.
Is that what you did?
Summary:
On your Desktop with Version 16:
CTRL+ALT+C = File Compression
CTRL+ALT+SHFT+UpArrow + FileChecker
If not errors, Close Family Tree Maker on your Desktop.
Use Windows Explorer and Copy the FTW file from your Desktop and Paste it onto your External Drive
Take that External Drive and attach it to your Laptop
Open Version 2010, and click on Import Existing File, and select that FTW file.
Are these the steps that you followed?
If not, please repeat this process. I have done this a number of times and I know it works.
Thank you,
Russ
Yes - I did all that and will do the it again and report back to you.
ReplyDeleteI started from scratch and followed your direction. Everything seemed to be the same, except when it accessed the backup file it was an FBK file rather than FTW. There were no errors although the first utility did cause a reboot. The second showed no errors. HAPPY to report, it worked. I can't thank you enough. I really feel as though I did each step each time and did nothign differently but right now I am only concerned with results. Thank you so much. Now a serious Q. In all myu frustrations with this, I read a lot online and many users seem to be unhappy with 2010. What's your opinion. It looks neat - a little getting use to should bring me up to speed. Thanks again.
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteIt will be very helpful if you provide details of what you did and what you saw.
Again, this is not a Family Tree Maker specific, or is it causing the problem, from what I can tell. Its something between your computers.
Thank you,
Russ
I followed your list of things to do. By now I had several files on the external so I just copied the most recently created back up and pasted it to the external file. For some reason, the last two times I did that the file that got created was an FBC file. This time it was an FBK file. That may have been the difference but I am savvy enough to figure out the difference. Just happy that it worked. The FTM problem is that the error message did not help an user to figure out the problem. It could have been more specific. Again thanks Kathy
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteFirst, I did NOT suggest you to make a Back Up. I asked you and will ask you again to only COPY the FTW file from the Desk Top computer to the External Drive AFTER you Close the Family Tree Maker program on the Desktop.
Or, in other words, do NOT open Family Tree Maker on your Desk Top computer. Just use Windows Explorer and Copy the FTW file from the Desktop computer and Paste it onto the External Drive.
Now, plug that External Drive into your Laptop computer.
Copy that FTW file, from the External Drive and Paste it onto the Hard Drive of your Laptop.
Now, open Family Tree Maker, then Import that file from your Hard Drive (NOT the External Drive) and see if it will work this way.
A FBK file is a COPY of the FTW file. It should NOT be considered a Back Up.
Russ
I don't know if you saw my last post. It is up and running now. sorry I didn't understand the nuance between FBK and FTW - I was looking for an .ftw file. I thought everything I put on my external I viewed as a back-up. It is fine now and I am happy to be able to go away with the new program. thanks again for your help.
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteSo, what did you do to get rid of that Error Message? It will be helpful for others who read this blog?
Thank you,
Russ
Kathy,
ReplyDeleteYou asked about Version 2010. I think it's the best version so far. I have been using Family Tree Maker since Version 3.4. 10 or 12 years now.
I hope that when you see complaints about 2010, you have seen responses, some of them from me.
You will find that folks don't post good things about a program, only when things don't work the way they think it should.
I assure you that I wouldn't be spending my time responding to a number of Family Tree Maker message boards, and trying to help other Users work with the program if I didn't think it was a good program. I certainly wouldn't spend the time in creating this Blog, if it wasn't worth the time and energy to do so.
Like the problem you were having. I am still pretty sure that the Family Tree Maker program was causing the problem that you were having. Which is why I am hoping that you will help identify what you did differently when it finally worked.
Russ
Hi,
ReplyDeleteInteresting discussions here. I too am having problems opening my older 2006 version file in my new 2010. Tried the diagnostics suggested. Getting 2 errors showing:
1 Test #41010 FILEID F0000000009C7.FIN (a storage) has no reference from any ATTCH -- and
2. Test #41010 FILEID F000000000A98.FIN (a storage) has no reference from any ATTCH
DONE
I have been using Family Tree Maker for many years starting with a dos version. I have never difficulty opening my data anytime I've upgraded before. I'd welcome any thoughts on the error messages above and what I can do. I have tried exporting my file to gedcom but no matter what I try I get that "unknown error" message. I've got over 9000 individuals in my database and can't risk losing / corrupting data. I'm getting close to trying a new program and that is a big move for me as I've always liked FTM - at least until their 2010 version.
Thoughts??
Keith
Keith,
ReplyDeleteVersion 2008, 2009, and 2010 have had difficulties opening a Version 16 or earlier if there are errors in the file. That sounds like what you have.
Please run this Utility from any Individual's Family Page:
CTRL+ALT+SHFT+LeftArrow
Please go to this website:
http://pastftm.custhelp.com/
Enter 1396 into the "Keyword Search" box and read that Knowledge Base Article. It should help you with this Error Message, and describe how to use the LOG file
Russ
Seem to be having the same issue with not being able to import into 2010 from 2006. Followed the two commands to check the file and still had the same issue. Any ideas?
ReplyDeleteGlen,
ReplyDeleteAre there any Errors in your Version 16 file?
What, EXACTLY, happens when Version 2010 tries to open your Version 16 file, creating a Version 2010 file?
Please be specific.
Thank you,
Russ
There were multiple natural mothers errors.
ReplyDeleteFile Checker with Fixer appeared to fix these issues but when I try to import the 2006 file into 2010, at a random interval the import will error with an unknown error.
Glen,
ReplyDeletePlease read this blog entry. I think you will see the screens that are in the first image. You may have to move a window to see it.
Russ
Very interested to read what Keith wrote. Very similar experience and background. My 2005 FTM file contains 8,800 individuals with 4 errors:
ReplyDelete1. Test #41010 FILEID F0000000000DB.FIN [a storage] has no reference from any ATTCH
2. Test #41012 FILEID F00000000000B.FIN has no stream/storage in FTW file
3. Test #41012 FILEID F000000000036.FIN has no stream/storage in FTW file
4. Test #41012 FILEID F000000000035.FIN has no stream/storage in FTW file
None of the "Tips for repairing a damaged file" solves the problem. After 27-min, Fixer comes up with the usual "damaged" file, use back-up. As did Compact file. There were (and still are) no obvious signs of problems "within" 2005 until I tried to privatise the information which failed with the usual damaged report after 50-min. Any suggestions?
.. suggestions?
ReplyDeleteLater, the same day: FTM 2010 just arrived in the post. I quickly installed and it read the "damaged" 2005 file without a single error. Very pleasantly surprised!
ChrisNF
ReplyDeleteDid you do the CTRL+ALT+SHFT+LeftArrow ?
Did you Unprivatize the file?
Do you have any Scrapbook items in your file?
Russ
Yes, I did use "CTRL+ALT+SHFT+LeftArrow". The 2005 failed to privatize. (Also failed to export.) Lots of scrapbook (photo) items. 2005 file size 63,120 KB while derived 2010 is 15,383 KB.
ReplyDeleteChrisNF,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update.
I thought you were having a problem Importing from Version 2005 to Version 2010?
The filesize WILL be different in the two versions. Version 2010 WILL BE Smaller.
Russ
Recap: At the time of my 1st post I had what FTM 2005 reported was a "damaged" file which could not be corrected by any of the FTM suggestions, and would not privatize or export even a single individual. Even the GEDCOM export lost considerable information. It was crippled and isolated although working "within" itself. By the time of the last post, the FTM 2010 update had arrived by snail mail, been installed and (apparently) worked instantly without a single error on the "damaged" file. (A post explaining this appears to have gone walkabout.)
ReplyDeleteChris
Chris,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the update. Glad 2010 was able to import your file. As new versions have been released, since 2008, the import process has been improved.
Thanks for letting us know.
Good luck
Russ
I have a Family Tree Maker Version 16 file which I sent a cousin who has Family Tree Maker 2010. He states he is not able to open it. After researching the problem I ran across this blog. I ran the CTRL+ALT+SHIFT+LeftArrow utility with the following results (which I also had to type - as it would not allow me to copy/paste):
ReplyDeleteTotal Errors: 7
# Test # Error Descripton
1 30018 Attch 51686 has a LINE (51472) with illegal WCHAR [13]
2 30018 Attch 51686 has a LINE [51472] with illegal WCHAR [10]
3 30018 Attch 51686 has a LINE [51472] with illegal WCHAR [13]
4 30018 Attch 51686 has a LINE [51472] with illegal WCHAR [10]
5 41010 FILEID F000000001B80.FIN [a storage] has no reference from any ATTCH
6 41010 FILEID F000000001E20.FIN [a storage] has no reference from any ATTCH
7 41010 FILEID F000000001FA6.FIN [a storage] has no reference from any ATTCH
Done
____________________
A later window appeared which stated that a log file was not created as it was not needed, but also was followed by a statement which instructed me to use a backup file as the original file was damaged. I wonder if my cousin also needs the "update" to his FTM 2010 version??? Where/how can he obtain it???
Brian,
ReplyDeleteDid you do the CTRL+ALT+C first? Followed by the CAS+UpArrow?
The WCHAR(10) and WCHAR(13) are NOT issues and those errors can be ignored.
How did you send the file to your cousin?
Russ
Russ, I ran both the CTL+ALT+C first, followed by the CAS+UpArrow (explanation following)... I sent my FTW file to my cousin by dataDVD in the mail. He copied the file from dataDVD to his hard drive. Since my last post I went to Sam's Club and purchased FTM 2010 and had the exact same problem with my original file. I have (AGAIN) gone through the following steps:
ReplyDeleteIn FTM Version 16 - I ran the CTL + ALT + C utility which: 1) initially stated that FTM successfully backed up my file; 2) started running a compression utility… but then got a pop-up window which stated: The information in the specified file has been damaged and cannot be used. Please revert to a backup (*.FBK) file - with the 2 options to either: 1) Retry or 2) Cancel. Clicking on the "Retry" button only results in the same "pop-up" message. I then hit "cancel" and proceeded to the CTL+ALT+SHFT+(up arrow) Family File Checker utility and got the following errors:
Total Errors: 7
# Test # Error Descripton
1 30018 Attch 51686 has a LINE (51472) with illegal WCHAR [13]
2 30018 Attch 51686 has a LINE [51472] with illegal WCHAR [10]
3 30018 Attch 51686 has a LINE [51472] with illegal WCHAR [13]
4 30018 Attch 51686 has a LINE [51472] with illegal WCHAR [10]
5 41010 FILEID F000000001B80.FIN [a storage] has no reference from any ATTCH
6 41010 FILEID F000000001E20.FIN [a storage] has no reference from any ATTCH
7 41010 FILEID F000000001FA6.FIN [a storage] has no reference from any ATTCH
Done
Installed FTM 2010 on Desktop and tried importing my FTM Version 16 file:
FTW Import: Individuals: 70 Families: 0 Media: 332 Errors: 0
Import Error: The import failed because an unknown error occurred.
While running CTL+ALT+C (File compact utility) got "pop-up": "The information in the specified file has been damaged and cannot be used. Please revert to a backup (*.FBK) file… but then immediately the same "damaged" file - opens (perfectly) in FTM Version 16.
Ran CTL+ALT+SHIFT+Left Arrow (Family File Checker with File Fixer) and got the response: [Auto File Fixer: "We have detected some errors. Try to fix them?] … clicked "YES"… got response: [Auto File Fixer]: "Enter the name of the log file in the following dialog. (Example: c:\ftw\log.txt" … clicked "OK"… and entered filename: "C:\Genealogy\FAMILY TREE FILES\ftw23Mar2010.txt"… and hit (enter/return) on keyboard… got response: [Auto File Fixer]: "Enter the name of the new FTW file in the following dialog"… clicked "OK" and entered: "C:\Genealogy\FAMILY TREE FILES\BriansFTW-Auto File Fixer File.FTW"… and hit (enter/return) on keyboard… "Exporting Individuals" started, but suddenly stopped and got response: "pop-up": "The information in the specified file has been damaged and cannot be used. Please revert to a backup (*.FBK) file…. Clicked "RETRY" button repeatedly - only getting the same msg… clicked "Cancel" and got "pop-up" [Auto File Fixer]: "Family Tree Maker did not create a log file because it was not required"… and then clicked "OK"… with same message of (7 errors).
and then the supposedly "damaged" file opens [flawlessly] in FTW Version 16.
Exported my FTM Version 16 file to .GED format and it opened up flawlessly (no errors on log report) in FTM 2010… but no media… Wondered if the "FTM 2010 update by snail mail" solution reported by ChrisNF would work for me? It appears his problem was the same as mine and after installing said update his entire file (media included) worked "instantly without a single error on the 'damaged' file."
Thanks, Brian
Brian,
ReplyDeleteWhen you saw that error message (Import Error), did you see the screens (2 of them) at the top of the Blog?
It looks like you don't have any Scrapbook items in Version 16. Is that correct?
If that is correct, then just use the file that you imported from the GEDCOM file.
Russ
Russ,
ReplyDeleteYes, I got the two screens... which stated:
FTW Import: Individuals: 70 Families: 0 Media: 332 Errors: 0
Import Error: The import failed because an unknown error occurred.
When I searched for the (individual(s)?) using the: Edit, Find individual, Search (Reference number) for "70" (the number that appeared / stopped during import)
It resulted with: Individual found "1 of ?" … upon clicking "Find Next" button it continued revealing individuals until it finally ENDED with "Individual found 252 of 252" before it stopped...
Does that mean I have to go to 252 different individuals, delete them all, and have to re-enter them all in 2010 after the import is completed??? I don't know if I have the energy for that... I agree with the prior users who stated he believed that the newer versions of FTM should support/import prior version .FTW files seamlessly! I guess I CAN use the GEDCOM file, but then again, I guess I'll have to go through the whole file and add all the photos that are missing... I'm not sure what "scrapbook" items are... are the same as photos?
Thanks, Brian
Russ,
ReplyDeleteYes, I saw the 2 screens [Import Error) which stated:
FTW Import: Individuals: 70 Families: 0 Media: 332 Errors: 0
Import Error: The import failed because an unknown error occurred.
When I searched for the (individual(s)?) using the: Edit, Find individual, Search (Reference number) for "70" (the number that appeared / stopped during import)
It resulted with: Individual found "1 of ?" … upon clicking "Find Next" button it continued revealing individuals until it finally ENDED with "Individual found 252 of 252" before it stopped...
Does that mean I have to delete the 252 individuals in the old Version 16 file, save it, open it in FTM 2010, and then manually re-enter the 252 individuals???... I'm not sure I have the energy for that! I would agree with the prior posts that FTM 2010 should support/import prior .FTM files seamlessly...
I do have many photos in my .FTW Version 16 file, but am not sure what "Scrapbook items" are... are they the same things as photos?... If so, and I simply utilize the new GEDCOM file, from what I understand, I'll have to go back and add all of them back in??? What about ChrisNF's "snail mail update" that worked for him - which allowed him to open up his Version 16 file FLAWLESSLY with all his photos?
Please Help...
Thanks,
Brian
Brian,
ReplyDeleteAre the two screens shown in Figure 26? if so, follow those instructions. Did you open the GEDCOM file?
Russ
Russ,
ReplyDeleteAs previously stated (explicit details), I did get the "two screens shown in Figure 26" and DID follow the instructions, but still have the same problems/questions as stated in prior post. And, yes - I was able to open the GEDCOM file, but no "scrapbook items"... Again, my question is - do I have to manually enter the "332 media" which are missing??? ... or is there any way to get the "2010 snail mail update" that ChrisNF referred to in his post which imported his "damaged" FTM Version 16 file FLAWLESSLY??? Do you know what this "snail mail update" was that he referred to? Is there any way I can contact him to see about obtaining it?
Thanks,
Brian
Brian,
ReplyDeleteSorry, I did not see a message that you opened the GEDCOM file and found or didn't find that Number. And, there could have been other numbers in the "next" attempt to input.
Don't know what "snail mail" update you are talking about.
You have confused me. I asked if you had any Scrapbook Items. They are Images in the Scrapbook part of Version 16. You said you didn't have any. Now you are saying taht you have 332 Media Items. Media Items in Version 2010 are the same as Scrapbook items in Version 16.
Since you said that you followed the instructions, and I know they work, what did you do with that First Individual that appeared in that 2nd window. Did you find that person on your Version 16 file? If so, what did you do then.
After you did something to that person in Version 16, did you try to open that file in Version 2010? Is so, what happened. Did you get another Number?
Russ
Russ,
ReplyDeleteI never said I didn't have any "scrapbook" items. I stated I had many "photos," but stated I wasn't sure what "scrapbook items" were... as I never made any "scrapbooks" from my FTM file. I now take it they are synonymous???
RE: "What did you do with that First Individual?"
Again I post my actions (explicitly):
When I searched for the (individual(s)?) using the: Edit, Find individual, Search (Reference number) for "70" (the number that appeared / stopped during import)
It resulted with: Individual found "1 of ?" … upon clicking "Find Next" button it continued revealing individuals until it finally ENDED with "Individual found 252 of 252" before it stopped...
Does that mean I have to go to 252 different individuals, delete them all, and have to re-enter them all in 2010 after the import is completed???
What I did NOT do was delete the First Individual (as it appeared that it was going to be an endless process which was going to involve the 252 individuals which showed up when I clicked the "FIND NEXT" button). I guess I'm asking you in advance (if you happen to know) if that IS the case. I guess if I have only 2 options of individually deleting an individual from FTM Version 16, saving a new file with the deleted individual, importing the new file into FTM 2010, (and so forth - 252 times with each "FIND NEXT" individual) VS using the GEDCOM file which DID import - and then manually adding the photos (322) - the worse of 2 evils would be importing the photos! - But I guess I'm hoping for an easier fix...
The "snail mail" upgrade I'm referring to is the post by "ChrisNF" who apparently had the SAME problem I had:
ChrisNF said...
Recap: At the time of my 1st post I had what FTM 2005 reported was a "damaged" file which could not be corrected by any of the FTM suggestions, and would not privatize or export even a single individual. Even the GEDCOM export lost considerable information. It was crippled and isolated although working "within" itself. By the time of the last post, the FTM 2010 update had arrived by snail mail, been installed and (apparently) worked instantly without a single error on the "damaged" file. (A post explaining this appears to have gone walkabout.)
Chris
March 19, 2010 2:23 AM
_______
I guess I'm asking you if you happen to know that if the "FIND NEXT" button shows up - that it indeed MEANS that there are THAT MANY PROBLEMS (in my case 252 Individuals) which will have to be INDIVIDUALLY deleted, followed by saving the new file, followed by opening the new file in 2010, etc... If you DON't know the answer, it's O.K. - I'll just try it ONE TIME with the First Individual and will let you know if it's going to be the ENDLESS PROCESS it appears it's going to be. That way other users might benefit from my trials! I'll let you know what happens...
Brian
Russ,
ReplyDeleteI deleted the First Individual in the FTM Version 16 file and closed it. Imported it into FTM 2010 - took quite a while - but it finally imported everything but the deleted (1 individual) I had deleted - including all my photos. I am now in the processing of adding him BACK to my new FTM 2010 file, as well as having to add back all the "facts"... It is not fun, and it may take some time, but it does appear it's going to work... (and that I'm NOT going to have to do the same thing with the 252 other "FIND NEXT" individuals...
Thanks so much for your help!
Brian
Brian,
ReplyDeleteSome times, you do not have to Delete the Individual, but look at the individual's record (all of the information and scrapbook items) to see if you see something that is not right. I found that it was easier to look at the GEDCOM file and see if there were any weird (ASCII) characters in the GEDCOM that may have been causing the Errors.
Thank you for the update.
Russ
Brian,
ReplyDeleteWhen you did the Find 70 and found 252 "hits" was the 70 part of a larger number, like 700, 270, 701?
Russ
I have just purchased FTM 2010 and like others I appear to get the error message when trying to load up FTW files made by FTM 2006. Although I can load up the gedcom files these do not include all the images and documents I added. I have three family trees to import, one worked the other two did not. Reading through this thread I cannot see how to correct this problem. All FTW files still work in FTM 2006, therefore not corrupted. The file that did load had the least amount of individuals. I would appreciate any suggestions as Customer support pointed me to this site. Frank
ReplyDeleteFrank,
ReplyDeleteTwo of your Three Family Files are OK, right?
On the one that will not load into Version 2010, 1) what is the size of the file, and 2) did you Do the CTRL+ALT+C routine?
Do you see any error messages?
Russ
Hello Russ. Thank you for response. Only one file was successful which was 114,180kb in size. The two that did not load are 641,309kb and 129,277kb in size. I did try CTRL+ALT+C and nothing appeared to happen. Possibility that I did it incorrectly, could you walk me through it (Forest Gump style - as a two year old). Thanks.
ReplyDeleteFrank,
ReplyDeleteWhen you did the CTRL+ALT+C (that is the CTRL Key, the ALT Key, and the letter C, held down at the same time) you will see something happen. Did you see something happen?
Please give this a try: CTRL+ALT+SHFT+UpArrow. So, hit and hold the CTRL key, the ALT key, the SHFT key, then the UpArrow key all four at the same time. A window will open where you would select START.
When you do this, are there any errors?
Russ
Hello Russ, having scanned the thread, I noticed advice you have already given. So, with the 129.277kb file I was successful in compacting and importing into FTM 2010. However, with the larger file I have not been successful. I think I have compacted it. But when I try and import into FTM 2010 the processing appears to go further than before but stops at 6% processing and I then get the error message " The import failed because an unknown error failed".
ReplyDeleteRegards
Frank
Frank,
ReplyDeleteOK, please re-read this posting. I have shown here, how to identify and resolve that problem. Please look closely at the first screen capture. You may have to move the window that shows you 6% to see another screen to show you a number.
Russ
Hi Russ. My mother has FTM 2005 on an old tower that's just about had it. We bought her a new W7 laptop (I think it is 64 bits) and intend to put FTM 2012 on it. Is it possible to transfer the old 2005 data to the new 2012 installation?
ReplyDeleteRegards,
Monica.
Monica,
DeleteYes. Just copy the FTW file from the old computer
and paste it into the My Documents/Family Tree Maker folder that is created when you install FTM2012. Then, File, Open, in FTM2012 and it will import the FTM2005 file.
Russ
Russ, that's most helpful. Many thanks, Monica.
ReplyDeleteMonica,
DeleteYou are most welcome.
Good luck,
Russ
Hi Russ, just thought I'd let you know that the transfer worked perfectly.
DeleteAgain, thanks for your help.
Monica :-)
Monica,
DeleteGreat. Thanks for letting me know.
Good luck,
Russ
Hi: I am trying to help out someone who is having troubles with her Family Tree Maker files. She handed over her tower to me and said "fix it". She has 3 versions of Family Tree Maker on her computer, version 10, 2011 and 2012. I fixed most of her file problems but there were two of her other family trees that would not open. They have extensions of FTW and FBK so they look like older version files. I opened up version 10 and tried to open either of the files and it gives me "The File you are trying to load is from a newer version of Family Tree Maker and cannot be loaded..." So then I load up 2011 and try to open the files and it says "File could not be imported. It may be in use by another program, it may be corrupt or it may not contain any data". I get the same error in 2012. I also tried Importing as New Tree but get the same error. The files are very small (433kb and 438kb). Is this small enough to be empty files? I have also tried restoring from backup with the same result. Any ideas. Thanks Ann
ReplyDeleteAnn,
DeleteI hope you restarted your computer when you saw the message about being used by another program.
Both of those file sizes are about the size of a NEW file from Version 16 or earlier. There may not be anything in those two files.
But try opening them in FTM2012.
Russ
For the past several days, I've been trying to upgrade from FTM 2006 version 16 to 2012. The import always fails at the same point: An error occurred during import. And always with individual 9094. My file is only 604MB, so it's not that large.
ReplyDeleteI tried the Low Memory import - fails at same point.
I've compressed the file.
I've re-indexed the file
I've ran the file fixer - no errors
I've ran file checker and fixed 2 minor error. Reran with no errors.
Using the import log and gedcom file to determine who 9094 is and deleted this person.
However, rerunning the import fails at the same point with individual 9094 - who is a different person.
Gedcom is not an option as I have far too many images in my database.
What other actions can be taken to import my file into 2012? Thanks for your help in advance.
Anonymous,
DeleteDid you re-look at the 2nd import log and the 2nd GEDCOM to verify that you had deleted that first (9094)?
Did you try to generate a GEDCOM file to import it, for a test? Were you successful?
Russ