Resolved Can't open .PPT file attachment in WLM

I'm using Windows Live Mail with my W7 64 bit OS. I recently received an email with an attachment that was a .ppt file. When I tried to open it I got an error message saying that I did not have a program associated with this file type. I saved the attachment to my desktop and then renamed the file type to .pps and was able to open the file. I then renamed the file back to .ppt and assigned the same program to open the .ppt file at opens a .pps file.

On my desktop I can now open either a .ppt or .pps file however, for an attachment that is in WLM, when I double click on the attachment I still receive the same error message saying I don't have a program associated with the file type. I can open .pps file attachments within WLM.

Double checked my file associations by displaying the file types from the control panel, default programs, I see the file type is defined as one might expect since I can open the file type on my desktop.

In a final desperate effort I uninstalled my powerpoint viewer and downloaded the latest from Microsoft with no joy.

I did reboot after defining the file type of .ppt as well as after reloading the PP viewer.

I'm obviously missing something here like an elephant in the living room. Anyone have any ideas here.

 

Does this help at all: (Always backup registry prior to any changes. Either create restore point, or export any hkeys before modifications or both. If you need additionall instructs on how to do this, jut ask.)

Unable to Open .PPS or .PPT Attachments Directly From Windows Mail or Windows Live Mail

 

When you save it to the desktop, right click on it and this time choose Open With and find the MS Power Point Viewer. Left click on it then put a check in the box at the bottom of the page to remember this the next time opening this type of file or what ever it says. Click OK and go from there. Works for me on a friends PC that uses the MS Viewers. You could also download Open Office as it is just like MS Office and is FREE and then you don't need the MS Viewers.

 

Ann, that did the trick. A simple rename in the registry and it works like a charm.

I won't even ask why it's a problem that requires a manual fix... nope.. not go'n there.

Thanks so much for your help.

 

MrBill, thanks for the response but I have the issue resolved. I had already done most of what you suggested. I do have Open Office installed on my computer but it has never helped me to view .pps files. Possibly this is because I have a PP viewer installed.

I appreciate your input.

 

Your most welcome Jim. I am glad this worked.

For archives the fix used is: