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Powerpoint cannot edit embedded Excel

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3 replies

by twelliver

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I'm experiencing a problem on our GM's computer, and while I've tracked down a temporary solution, it won't be used longterm as he is allergic to extra steps in his computer operation.

We received a set of files that included a powerpoint presentation on how to create a strategic plan for the company. On one of the slides, there is an excel spreadsheet embedded that they want information entered into.

Our GM forwarded the mail to all of the department heads, and it works fine for everyone, except the GM.

Doubleclicking the attached presentation opens up PowerPoint 97. When we try to edit the embedded spreadsheet, two error messages pop up. One is a Windows error message stating

Excel.exe - application error
The instruction at 0x30463f71 referenced memory at 0x00000000. The memory could not be 'Read'

The second error message is within Powerpoint and states

The server application, source file, or item cannot be found. You should reinstall the server application.

I have already searched the Microsoft site and found a couple problems that had the second message as a symptom, but neither of them worked as fixes.

I was working on it again today, and discovered that the embedded spreadsheet works properly if I have a copy of Excel running on the system when I try to edit it.

It seems that Powerpoint has just forgotten how to reach the Excel file, but I don't know how to correct that problem. I have already reinstalled office 97, and removed and done a clean install of office 97. After each I installed service packs 1 and 2 for office 97, so I don't think I'm missing any files.

3 replies

by otl

You did not mention the version of windows, but for an example;

Recently I had a problem with a corrupted file on Win 98. Reloading produced the same errors. Using add/remove programs removed and reloaded with the same result.

Used remove program then deleted the main directory for the program, reloaded and is working great.

Thus by clean did you delete the MSOFFICE directory? You may have to manually remove some of the hidden files to delete the directory. At the same time (before reboot) Refresh the files for Power Point.

GOOD LUCK!

by twelliver

I ended up removing the Office installation and then reinstalling it in a new directory, which created a new set of registry entries pointed to the non corrupt files. Works fine now.

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