File Conversion Starts a Second Instance of Word

• Microsoft Word for Windows, versions 2.0, 2.0a, 2.0a-CD, 2.0b, 2.0c, 6.0, 6.0a, 6.0c

SYMPTOMS

If the .CNV filename extension is associated with WINWORD.EXE in Windows File Manager, Windows attempts to start a second instance of Word for Windows when you convert a file in Word. One of the following happens, depending on whether you are running SHARE.EXE:

• If SHARE.EXE is loaded, a second instance of Word for Windows starts and opens a new, blank document, and then the following error message occurs:

        Word cannot start the converter <ConverterName>.CNV
  

• If SHARE.EXE is not loaded, the following error messages occur:

        SHARE.EXE is not loaded. Please exit Windows and load SHARE.EXE.
  

        Word cannot start the converter <ConverterName>.CNV
  

CAUSE

When Word attempts to start the file converter (which has a .CNV filename extension), the Windows association prevents the converter from running.

RESOLUTION

Use the following steps to remove the Windows association for the .CNV extension:

1. Start Windows File Manager.

2. From the File menu, choose Associate.

3. In the Files With Extension box, type "CNV" (without the quotation marks).

4. From the Associate With list, select (None) and then choose OK.