Chat about Office and Windows with the MVP Experts
(Thursday, October 14, 2010)
Chat Topic: Chat about Office and Windows with the MVP Experts
Date: Thursday, October 14, 2010
Please note: Portions of this transcript have been edited for clarity.
Melissa Travers MSFT (Moderator):
Hi everyone- welcome to the Chat about Windows and Office with the MVP Experts Chat. I am your host this evening. My name is Melissa Travers and I am the MVP Lead for some of the Microsoft Office products in the US. Your questions, comments and feedback are welcome.
Now it’s time to meet our MVPs who have joined us for this today’s chat. Let’s have our Experts introduce themselves now and then we’ll get started…
Introductions:
adacosta (Expert):
Hi, my name is Andre Da Costa. I am from the Caribbean island of Jamaica in the West Indies, I best describe myself as a technology enthusiast. I author a blog about my experiences using Windows and Windows Live services. I am also the Lead Review Editor at popular Windows Enthusiast website and community ActiveWin.com I was recently awarded Microsoft MVP for 2010 in the category Windows Desktop Experience.
Blog: https://adacosta.spaces.live.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/adacosta
Andrew Lavinsky MVP (Expert):
Greetings everyone! My name is Andrew Lavinsky, and I am a Managing Consultant with Catapult Systems (Houston, TX) where I specialize in Project Server implementations. After this event, feel free to check out my Project and Project Server blog @ <https://blogs.catapultsystems.com> and tweet me @alavinsky.
Aryeh Goretsky (Expert):
Hello, my name is Aryeh Goretsky. I am a Windows Desktop Experience MVP and participate in the Windows communities at Lenovo, Lockergnome, Neowin, Scot's Newsletter Forum as well as security ones like Wilders Security Forum and on various mailing lists. I've been an MVP since 2004 (Windows-Networking). Professionally, I've worked in the computer industry since 1989 and currently work as the Distinguished Researcher at ESET, which makes antivirus software.
Bill Jelen [MVP] (Expert):
Bill Jelen is the host of MrExcel.com and the author of 32 books about Excel, including The Upgraders Guide to Excel 2010: https://tinyurl.com/28jt6xu
Boyd Trimmell MVP (Expert):
I have been programming since 1979. I have been an Access Developer since Version 2.0 was released. I specialize in creating Accounting Systems, Membership/License Management Systems, and Oil and Gas related systems.
Personal website/blog https://www.hitechcoach.com
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Hi! My name is Chad Solarz and I am a Sr. Technical Instructor with Directions Training Center (www.directionstraining.com) a Chicago IL. Based Microsoft Training center. I've been an instructor for 5 years now. My focus is on Windows 7, Office 2010 deployment, Windows Server 2008 and Exchange 2010 training. I've been in IT for almost 17 years, and hold over 20 certifications. I am a first Year MVP in Windows Desktop Experience (windows 7 J ). Please see my blog (www.csolarz.wordpress.com) also follow me on Twitter - @csolarz. Hope to help a lot of people today!
Crystal Long -Access (Expert):
Welcome :) My name is Crystal. I love sharing information about Access and other Office applications. I have free video tutorials for learning Access on YouTube https://www.YouTube.com/user/LearnAccessByCrystal
... and a free book on my website:
https://www.AccessMVP.com/strive4peace
In real life (smile), I do remote training and programming -- love it, get to stay home with my kids and animals and work with great folks. Looking forward to seeing you on UtterAccess, MS_Access_Professionals, MrExcel, MSDN forums, or another online community.
Joe Anderson - Access (Expert):
Greetings …
I’m Joe Anderson
Rancho Cucamonga California
Microsoft Access MVP.
Number 2 Expert in Access Zone on Experts-Exchange.com (Joe Anderson)
Database architect for Southern California Edison.
CEO & Chief Database Architect, www.alldatacorp.com <https://www.alldatacorp.com>
Microsoft Access 24x7x365 since Access 1.0
EOF
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Hi, I’m Diane Poremsky. I’ve been an Outlook MVP since 1999. I own the Outlook & Exchange Solutions Center at https://www.slipstick.com and Outlook Daily Tips (https://www.outlook-tips.net).
Doug Yudovich (Expert):
Hello everyone! My name is Doug Yudovich. I am the Director of Business Information Applications for UW Physicians in Seattle (WA) and work a lot with creating data and information management tools using both Access and SQL Server. We also use Cognos for out enterprise BI platform. You can find me at UtterAccess <https://www.utteraccess.com> where I am an administrator for both the forums <https://www.utteraccess.com/forum/ >and the Access Wiki < https://www.utteraccess.com/wiki\>. I am a contributing author and a technical editor for Access 2010 Programmer's Reference (ISBN-13: 978-0470591666) and Microsoft Access Small Business Solutions (ISBN-13: 978-0470525746). I’m a member of the local Access developers group – PNWADG, and work with the Access Dev team to provide input on new features.
Echo Swinford (Expert):
Hi, I'm Echo Swinford, a self-employed PowerPoint geek specializing in PowerPoint templates, training and consulting. https://www.echosvoice.com
Glenna Shaw PPT MVP (Expert):
Hello, my name is Glenna Shaw. I have over 14 years of experience creating data visualizations in the form of presentations, project management tools, dashboards, demos, prototypes and system user interfaces. I specialize in creating interactive PowerPoint and Microsoft Office files that are fully accessible to persons using assistive technology. I’m also known for my PowerPoint educational game templates. I have been a Microsoft PowerPoint MVP since 2004.
Harry Waldron (Expert):
Hi - I'm Harry Waldron, Enterprise Security MVP - am pleased with the security improvements found in both Windows 7 and Office 2010 for both corporate and home users
Jay Ferron MVP (Expert):
As a speaker, Jay has presented at APCUG, Comdex, Tech Forum Managers meetings, Future Forum 2000, ISPCON, Corporate Advisory Board, CTEXPO, Web Developer conference, Microsoft Tech-Ed, WPC, Web 2.0, and many computer events. Jay travels the around the world teaching and training users of computer technologies.
I am Microsoft Springboard Technical Expert Panel (STEP) member and a Microsoft MVP.
Jay Ferron bio is currently president of the Association of Personal Computer User Groups (APCUG), a global board director of GITCA, and board member of the Information Systems Audit and Control Association-CT.
I am also a self-proclaimed geek who has authored; Architecting Microsoft Server Virtualization Solutions with Hyper-V™ and System Center Virtual Machine Manager; Smart Computing Magazine (assorted articles on Microsoft Technologies) • Subject Matter Expert for Microsoft System Center Mobile Device Manager Course MOC Course 6064a.
My Blog is Blog.mir.net
Justin Rodino [mvp] (Expert):
Hi all, I'm Justin Rodino an MVP who recently moved to the Redmond area. I used to be in the UK/EMEA region working on desktop technologies and have been very active in the community. I do a lot of work with Windows 7 at shows as well as do technical authoring and consulting and helped recently co-author the Office 2010 Bible. My blog is https://www.227volts.com and I'm on twitter @dutchie027
Joli Ballew (Expert):
I'm an author of over 40 books on Microsoft technologies. I've written books on topics ranging from Office to Windows Server to all of the operating systems.
Ken Slovak MVP (Expert):
Hi everyone, my name is Ken Slovak and I've been an Outlook MVP since 1998. I specialize in Outlook, Exchange and Office development and programming. I'm the author of Professional Programming Outlook 2007, among other books, and my Web site is <https://www.slovaktech.com> where you can find various Outlook programming samples, and my addin products for Outlook.
Nate Oliver MVP (Expert):
Good Day, I'm Nate Oliver, Microsoft Excel MVP, from Minneapolis, MN. My background is in Economics and Finance and I look forward to our chat, today. Welcome.
Rolly Perreaux - PMP (Expert):
Hi my name is Rolly Perreaux. I am a Senior EPM Consultant/Instructor with PMO Logistics Inc. with over 25 years of experience in Network Information Systems, Project Management, and Finance & Administration. I hold various designations from the Project Management Institute (PMI), Microsoft, Compaq, IBM, CheckPoint and CompTIA and I am currently a Microsoft MVP for Project (was MVP for Active Directory in 2008).
My blog will be moving over to <https://blogs.mvp-press.com/RollyPerreaux> in the next week, so look for me there. ;) I also tweet as @RollyPerreaux (<https://twitter.com/RollyPerreaux>)
I am also the author/co-author for 4 courses on Microsoft Project / Project Server (2003-2010), published by Microsoft Learning and MVP-Press Inc. My current course outlines can be reviewed at <https://www.mvp-press.com/outlines/courses.htm>
Scott Helmers (Expert):
I’m a Visio MVP with a strong focus on business process mapping and related issues, however, I never tire of playing with the endless customizability of Visio shapes and drawings. I hang out in the Visio zone at Experts Exchange (https://www.experts-exchange.com/Microsoft/Applications/Microsoft_Visio/) and am currently writing "Visio 2010 Step by Step" for Microsoft Press (https://www.amazon.com/dp/0735648875/). I am also the co-creator of TaskMap.
Stephanie Krieger (Expert):
Hi - I’m an Office system MVP and a professional document geek … I work most heavily with Word and PowerPoint in both Office for Windows and Office for Mac, as well as using Office Open XML to create custom content and using VBA to automate and customize Office documents. Check out of my (badly neglected :) blog to for resources (as well as info about my books) and news about an upcoming book for Office 2010 and Office for Mac 2011. You can also reach me via the blog - arouet.net - with questions you have that arise after this chat.
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
My Name is Tim Runcie, I am a MS Project MVP out of Portland Oregon (USA). I have been an MVP for 8 years and I teach, speak and author in Project, Program and Portfolio Management, specifically around Project / Server 2010.
www.Advisicon.com <https://www.Advisicon.com> is my website
www.AdvisiconBlog.com <https://www.AdvisiconBlog.com> is my blog
Feel free to e-mail me questions at Tim.Runcie@Advisicon.com <mailto:Tim.Runcie@Advisicon.com> if you need some deeper pointers or direction.
Tushar Mehta MVP (Expert):
I have received the MVP award for Excel since 2000. With a background in business, I can discuss with my clients their tactical and operational concerns using the language of business. At the same time, with a background in technology, I understand the appropriate level of technology required to solve my clients’ issues. I have also taught management principles to healthcare executives using real-time, interactive, web-based simulations. My website, www.tushar-mehta.com <https://www.tushar-mehta.com>, contains tutorials and add-ins for Excel and PowerPoint and my blog posts can be found at www.dailydoseofexcel.com <https://www.dailydoseofexcel.com> and www.tmehta.com/tmblog <https://www.tmehta.com/tmblog>.
Zack Barresse (Expert):
Hi, my name is Zack and I'm an Excel MVP. My full-time job is a fire fighter. You would think I wouldn't necessarily use Excel, but I find creative ways! I am usually found on the online help forums, such as www.mrexcel.com, www.techguy.org and www.vbaexpress.com of which I own, to name a few. I've been blessed to find the Office and Excel community.
Melissa Travers MSFT (Moderator):
Thank you to our Experts for your introductions. Let’s begin the chat. Please remember to check the “ask the experts” box when sending your questions. Thanks!
Start of Chat:
Beth Melton (Expert):
Q: Can you tell me why WF7 does not support Calendar and Contact sync? Why only email?
A: Hi everyone! My name is Beth Melton and I’ve been a computer instructor, writer, and developer since January, 1995. I develop custom solutions across the Office applications for a wide range of clients and instruct computer classes for colleges and businesses, both locally and throughout the US. I’m a co-author of Microsoft Office Word 2007 Inside Out and have been a Microsoft Office Systems MVP since 2
Jay Ferron MVP (Expert):
Q: And what do I do with the Deployment Toolkit?
A: if you are talking about MDT 2010 you can image computer and help move XP to Win7
Doug Yudovich (Expert):
Q: I'd like to ask a question about pivot charts in Access.
Can any of the experts please shed light as to how to solve https://www.utteraccess.com/forum/Rarefying-Pivot-Chart-tic-t1954428.html ?
A: Your question in UtterAccess has an attachment. I cannot download it now, but I will look at it later and post in the thread.
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: outlook 2010 cached mode - exchange 2007 : outlook opens / closes very slowly. ± 5 min. Procmon shows many many writes to .ost file. Already stripped bunch of add-ons. What to do to help my end users ?
A: This is most commonly due to large OST files. Try to archive and see if the performance improves.
Jay Ferron MVP (Expert):
Q: And what do I do with the Deployment Toolkit?
A: you can also us the tools with the beta option to convert ax XP computer virtual computer and then move into a Win7 virtual pc
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Are there any "official" plans to include a Blu-ray codec in Windows, either in a Service Pack or a future version?
A: I am not aware of any plans to do so. Cyberlink recently released support for Blu-ray with PowerDVD 10, learn more here https://bit.ly/areE1x
Tushar Mehta MVP (Expert):
Q: Hi: I'm an Excel developer on a trading floor in a bank in London. I'd like to know what tools - if any - will be replacing VBA in Excel in forthcoming releases.
A: As far as I know, Microsoft has not announced any replacement for VBA. So, my assumption, and it is an assumption, is that VBA will be supported for *at least* the next release of Office.
Joe Anderson-Access (Expert):
Q: Are we going to see all the 32-bit APIs added as 64-bit APIs to Win7? Even simple things like the Tree control is not available, thus converting a simple Access 2007 app to Access 64 is not possible currently.
A: "thus converting a simple Access 2007 app to Access 64 is not possible currently."
Justin Rodino [mvp] (Expert):
Q: Many folks that I support that were using Win XP that went to Win 7 have some trouble navigating to simple tasks like Firewall exceptions, is there an MS KB that outlines runbox commands for these ?
A: Randy, the firewall changed quite a bit from XP to Windows 7 and is now Windows Firewall with advanced security. If you're supporting them one-by-one you can use netsh advfirewall (https://support.microsoft.com/kb/947709) otherwise in a domain environment, I'd suggest using GPO's to control the firewall.
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: So, does anyone know how I can install win7 without putting in the s/n so I can build our perfect machine and clone it, then each machine, as we start it up, we can put in the legal licensed s/N?
A: Your best bet in this area is to download and install the Windows Automated Install Kit (WAIK) here - https://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?FamilyID=696dd665-9f76-4177-a811-39c26d3b3b34&displaylang=en part of this toolset is the WinSim tool. This tool allows you to customize the deployment of windows by creating an XML answer file.
Stephanie Krieger (Expert):
Q: I would like to create my own themes in Word 2010, but I recently heard that there is a toolkit I should use to do this. Is this correct?
A: Hi there - you can save a theme with a mix of fonts, colors, and graphic effects in Word - but to create a complete theme - go to PowerPoint so that you can also include the slide master, layouts, and backgrounds in your theme. You can't create custom graphics effects or slide background gallery options from within the Office apps - but there is a tool that you can download to help you do that if you don't write Open XML. I'll grab you that URL and come right back with more info.
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: Perfect, where do I get the Automated Install Tool Kit please?
A: You can get the tool here :) https://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?FamilyID=696dd665-9f76-4177-a811-39c26d3b3b34&displaylang=en
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: Good morning, from Montana. In Outlook 2010, how do users modify a member in a distribution list without having to add a separate contact in their main contacts list?
A: If a contact does not exist, you can use Add Members, New Email Contact to add the member to the group.
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: what about windows mobile 6 & outlook 2010 x64 sync?
A: At this time, Microsoft has no plans to support sync between WMDC and Outlook 2010 x64.
Bill Jelen [MVP] (Expert):
Q: Hi: I'm an Excel developer on a trading floor in a bank in London. I'd like to know what tools - if any - will be replacing VBA in Excel in forthcoming releases.
A: Given that they still support Excel 4 macros 12 years after VBA was released, you should have a good 10 years after the replacement product is announced.
Joe Anderson-Access (Expert):
Q: Are we going to see all the 32-bit APIs added as 64-bit APIs to Win7? Even simple things like the Tree control is not available, thus converting a simple Access 2007 app to Access 64 is not possible currently.
A: " thus converting a simple Access 2007 app to Access 64 is not possible currently."
At the MVP Summit last Feb, the Access product group folks suggested we not use Officex64 unless we needed "extremely large Excel spread sheets" ... as an FYI.
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
Q: I need a solution for document version tracking and am wondering if office already has this functionality built in. We have SharePoint but the problem is that once a user downloads a file locally it is outdated relatively quickly. Is there a way to make documents check for a newer version on SharePoint every time they are opened?
A: Are you using SharePoint? You can certainly leverage version control directly there at a very simple level
Beth Melton (Expert):
Q: Can you tell me why WF7 does not support Calendar and Contact sync? Why only email?
A: Are you referring to Windows Phone 7? If so, it does support calendar and contact sync. However, what type of email account are you using?
Stephanie Krieger (Expert):
Q: I would like to create my own themes in Word 2010, but I recently heard that there is a toolkit I should use to do this. Is this correct?
A: Here's the link where you can download the theme builder tool. Check out the help menu in that tool for lots of documentation on how to create themes. Remember that the same themes can be used in Word, PowerPoint, and Excel :) https://connect.microsoft.com/themebuilder Also - you'll find a couple of articles on creating custom themes from scratch under the Open XML article listings here (from my blog): https://www.arouet.net/articles.html
Ken Slovak MVP (Expert):
Q: [outlook 2010: how is changing of the colors of 'follow-up flag' possible at all? despite having the 'categorize' coloring which does not get listed in the 'To-Do List' unlike flagging, wonder what is possible way to change flag color? thanks
A: Aside from using code there really isn't a way to change flag colors other than by changing their due dates. Even there the color shifts are very subtle. Using code you can set any of the standard flag colors from Outlook 2003 or earlier.
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: I now did turn off antivirus (trend micro), still that many writes from outlook.exe to .ost file when closing outlook. Opening outlook is fine. Closing bad. Still on cached mode.
A: Do you have a "Send and receive on exit option" selected?
Justin Rodino [mvp] (Expert):
Q: I need a solution for document version tracking and am wondering if office already has this functionality built in. We have SharePoint but the problem is that once a user downloads a file locally it is outdated relatively quickly. Is there a way to make documents check for a newer version on SharePoint every time they are opened?
A: Office 2010 has the capability of multi-user editing in documents but if your users are downloading the document without checking it out properly from SharePoint it will be hard to control versioning. You can alternatively use SharePoint workspaces to try and help keep documents in sync (essentially syncing your SharePoint workspace to the SharePoint client).
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: I know no one can comment on unreleased products, but will MS be focusing on 64-bit stronger on the next release of Windows (I've never had an issue, but others have) and MS Office?
A: Microsoft currently has a strong set of 64 bit solutions, both Windows Server and client are available in 64 bit variants. Microsoft Office 2010 recently released is also the first 64 bit native Office productivity.
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: Does Outlook 2010 calendar have Autopick or is it just suggested times only now?
A: Suggested times replaces autopick.
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: The MDK and AIK process sounds complicating! When we install the win7 disk afterwards it always asks for the s/n... how do I skip that part?
A: Only using an answer file.
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
Q: Thanks Harry, I'll try to find out about that PowerPivot link
A: <https://blogs.technet.com/b/dataplatforminsider/archive/2010/07/27/leading-research-firm-gartner-inc-publishes-two-important-notes-on-microsoft-powerpivot.aspx>
is a good link, there are some posted articles out there as well.
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: In Outlook 2010, how do users modify a member in a distribution list without having to add a separate contact in their main contacts list?
A: Use Add Members, New Email Contact and uncheck the option to create a contact.
Bill Jelen [MVP] (Expert):
Q: Office 2010 all apps; Print Preview at backstage: the older versions of apps have rulers/guidelines to adjust margins of page in print preview in an instant is no longer applicable in the new backstage view print page in backstage (though we can still
A: Look for a tiny Show Margins icon in the lower right corner of Print Preview in backstage view. It is the 2nd icon from the bottom right corner in Excel 2010
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
Q: What would the Experts recommend as a good source for describing the process of securing and protecting parts of a worksheet?
A: There are lots of good posting in the newsgroups and the Excel MVP blogs on this. Are you looking for training materials or how to's?
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: What can we expect to see from MS, the virtualization, and the cost of licensing? for Windows and Office products
A: I believe MS sees any instance of an application or OS as a deployment. So you will still need a license / product key for it.
Justin Rodino [mvp] (Expert):
Q: My company creates a book several times a year that is authored by about 5 different writers. We use Master Document to generate this book document. I'm curious how the transition to Office 2010 may impact our work with Master Document. Will the Master Doc
A: Hi Mary, with Office 2010, depending on how your authoring process works, I'd suggest using SharePoint workspaces and shared files. When I'm working on authoring documents (such as books) with other authors, this works great and keeps our changes in sync, even cross-org and cross-domain.
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Comment & question re-submit [this is Office 2010 and Win 7 queries, yes ?] my query from 13:03, why is it so difficult in the Win 7 UI to navigate to simple places like the Firewall Exceptions Tab ?
A: You can send your feedback to Microsoft, they are always listening: https://mymfe.microsoft.com/Windows%207/Feedback.aspx?formID=195
Bill Jelen [MVP] (Expert):
Q: Hi there, I would like to know about the new Jet Drivers. Are they still shipped?
A: No... you have to switch to use ACE drivers instead of JET
Echo Swinford (Expert):
Q: I'd like to find an easier way to distribute PowerPoint themes (THMX files) to multiple users in my network. Currently, I have to copy them to the users' hard drives. I want to find a way to publish them to a shared network folder and make them as easy to get to as PowerPoint templates (POTX files).
A: Well, I'm not a networking kind of person, but what I usually see is a script that copies these to the users' hard drives when they log on. Or the templates/themes are posted to an intranet page for users to download. Unfortunately, PPT doesn't use shared folders for template access/distro.
Beth Melton (Expert):
Q: I have a question regarding the Office 2010 Proofing Tools Kit. I'm getting mixed information. Microsoft documentation says that it will be available in the Office 2010 Multi-Language pack, but that the Office 2010 Multi-Language pack is not currently available. All the TechNet articles I've found say that I have to load the proofing tools from each individual language pack. Can anyone clarify? In the past, the proofing tools have been just one simple installation. We don't need the user interface, just the proofing tools for multiple languages.
A: Did you see this documentation on deploying multilanguage packs for Office 2010? https://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?FamilyID=c37047c3-c7ee-4946-8927-1b2c3ca5f510&displaylang=en
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: Does Outlook 2010 calendar have Autopick or is it just suggested times only now?
A: Suggested times only - it replaces autopick.
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: Hi, I’m currently looking to start a site seeing software at reasonable prices...can I buy Windows 7 etc from you direct in bulk? :)
A: Currently you can only purchase software directly via the Microsoft Store or through a VAR.
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: Exchange 2010 provides the new Online Archive capability... Will the ability to view your Online Archive mailbox always be limited to Outlook as part of the Professional Plus (volume license only) product?
A: At this time, yes.
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Hi, I’m currently looking to start a site seeing software at reasonable prices...can I buy Windows 7 etc from you direct in bulk? :)
A: To learn more about how to purchase Windows in bulk, please check out the follow Microsoft Volume Licensing website: https://www.microsoft.com/licensing The site provides information about acquiring either through Microsoft or the nearest Value Added Reseller (VAR)
Glenna Shaw PPT MVP (Expert):
Q: I'd like to find an easier way to distribute PowerPoint themes (THMX files) to multiple users in my network. Currently, I have to copy them to the users' hard drives. I want to find a way to publish them to a shared network folder and make them as easy to get to as PowerPoint templates (POTX files).
A: Echo's right, we use a script to copy default themes to our user's hard drives, however if you don't want the themes to be the default, you can place the theme files on a network drive and the users can use the option to browse for themes on the network drive.
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: Will Windows Home Server "Vail" allow a direct upgrade from previous version when released?
A: If they know, they haven't made it public yet :) As I am sure you know it's currently a clean install only.
Bill Jelen [MVP] (Expert):
Q: Well, do those ACE drivers support 64bit OS?
A: Yes - there are 64-bit ACE drivers. If you are using 64-bit, you are forced to update from JET to ACE.
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: How can I search across data files in Outlook? Is there some kind of global search?
A: What version of Outlook? If the data files are open in Outlook 2007 or 2010, you can search across all files.
Aryeh Goretsky (Expert):
Q: If someone was going to Win Mail from OL how difficult would the transition be, if any ?
A: It should be very fairly easy to export your Windows Mail data and import it into Outlook. There are many resources on doing this from Microsoft's web site, forums and MVPs web sites. One good site seems to be https://www.howto-outlook.com/howto/migratefromoewlm.htm.
Doug Yudovich (Expert):
Q: For very small businesses like mine, what are the options for publishing MS Access database/forms to SharePoint if we don't have enterprise licenses?
A: You can use a hosting service that offers SharePoint and Access Services to publish your databases. One that I know about is https://accesshosting.com/
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
Q: hi. I have a laptop with win7. recently my battery doesn't work correctly. windows tell me "consider replacing your battery". when my computer hibernates because of low battery I turn it on again and I see it has some charge more. I guess my battery hasn't
A: Sounds like your battery is shot. Happens. do you have another laptop, similar battery you can swap and see?
Aryeh Goretsky (Expert):
Q:. I have no another laptop. I have bought it less than 10month. it is Compaq 615.
A: Some laptop manufacturers, such as Lenovo, have released new battery firmware that allows more accurate detection of a battery's charge. You might want to check with Compaq to see if such an update is available for your model.
Aryeh Goretsky (Expert):
Q: the warranty doesn't support the battery. I have searched but there is no answer for my problem. and surely I will search for such an update.
A: You may have to look around on Compaq's support forums as well as their download pages for your specific model of computer.
Jay Ferron MVP (Expert):
Q: the warranty doesn't support the battery. I have searched but there is no answer for my problem. and surely I will search for such an update.
A: you might try and fully drain the battery and the full charge it might have built memory or it could really be going bad did you check and make sure it was not recalled
Glenna Shaw PPT MVP (Expert):
Q: POT and POTX files *can* be shared in a shared folder. You have to set the Workgroup Folders location from Word, or tinker with the registry. They the shared templates appear in File | New. Unfortunately, the same is not true of themes. And Themes are now the way to apply the look and feel of one presentation to another, where we used to apply design templates.
A: You don't need the workgroup folder setting in the registry. Simply copy the files to a shared folder and your users can retrieve them using the Browse for Themes command.
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Will MSE (Microsoft Security Essentials) ever be listed on Windows Updates if no anti-virus is currently installed on the PC?
A: No, you will need to go the Microsoft Security Essentials web page and download https://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials or you can do a Bing Search for it, just type in 'Security Essentials'
Digital Dave (Expert):
Q: Active Directory contains an attribute for loading user pictures into (thumbnail Photo). When Outlook 2010 came out, it contained the ability to display these administrator defined user photos when receiving a message internally (assuming you had the proper AD schema). Windows 7 also has a place to display an individual's picture as part of the OS, but there doesn't seem to be any way to have it show the picture already loaded in Active Directory... nor does there seem to be any way to programmatically assign the user's photo in Windows 7. Will this functionality be extended to Windows 7? (In my ideal world, it'd come as part of SP1).
A: Honestly, I have not heard anything about that and to my knowledge in the very brief updates we have received from the DEV's I personally have not seen this feature being spoken about. That said, it is a very good idea especially when it comes to logging in on a shared machine.
Stephanie Krieger (Expert):
Q: PowerPoint 2010: master slide has 11 associated layouts of which last 2 are for vertical/portrait setup. Question is how would I be able to insert the layout for the last 2 slides as the "New Slide" command in [Home] tab does not list that last 2 'port
A: Hi - those layouts are automatically available in certain language editions of Office (such as Japanese). If you enable Japanese as an editing language, they should appear. Or, you can use a workaround to get them to appear in the Layouts gallery in a specific theme, template, or presentation.
The workaround is to go to the slide master (View tab, Slide Master) and scroll down to those layouts. Select any placeholder on the layout, cut it (CTRL+X) and then immediately paste it (CTRL+V). Then close the slide master and you should see the layout in the gallery.
Echo Swinford (Expert):
Q: @Echo - POT and POTX files *can* be shared in a shared folder. You have to set the Workgroup Folders location from Word, or tinker with the registry. They the shared templates appear in File | New. Unfortunately, the same is not true of themes. And Themes are now the way to apply the look and feel of one presentation to another, where we used to apply design templates.
A: Right. But you can apply a template the exact same way you apply a theme. The biggest difference between a theme and a template in this context is that a theme doesn't have "sample" slide content, but in this context, it's really a moot point. You apply them the same way.
Justin Rodino [mvp] (Expert):
Q: In our company we have many SMB shares on Windows 2003 Servers. Sometimes from Windows 7 and more often from Windows Server 2008 R2 we obtain very slow download speed (aprox. 4 KB/sec). Same time shares on Windows Server 2008 / 2008 R2 works fine.
A: What you're seeing is a change in the Server Messaging Block (SMB) protocol. The performance outlined this great on a blog post of theirs https://blogs.technet.com/b/askperf/archive/2008/05/30/two-minute-drill-overview-of-smb-2-0.aspx
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
Q: I saw that answer on JET drivers... What is the current state of play with running SQL queries against tabulated data in an Excel range? Do we still have the problem with database drivers spawning separate Excel.exe instances?
A: I haven't seen this happen, are you in 2010 when you are seeing this?
Joe Anderson-Access (Expert):
Q: Is it possible to do a split screen effect in Access 2010 have 2 forms side by side?
A: "Is it possible to do a split screen effect in Access 2010 have 2 forms side by side?"
Yes ... not on my A2010 machine at the moment, but ... there is an Option in the options section for Current Database wherein you can select 1 of 3 options for this, including 'side-by-side', although it's called something slightly different. And it's my preferred option.
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Will Office products support Itanium processors?
A: No, Microsoft Office requires an Intel x86-x64 processor. Learn more about system requirements at the following link: https://office.microsoft.com/en-us/products/microsoft-office-2010-system-requirements-HA101810407.aspx
Crystal Long -Access (Expert):
Q: Is it possible to do a split screen effect in Access 2010 have 2 forms side by side?
A: Yes, you can use 2 subforms on a main form. For information on creating a main form with subforms, read the Form/Report design section in Access Basics, a free book at https://www.AccessMVP.com/strive4peace
Digital Dave (Expert):
Q: Will Office products support Itanium processors?
A: No, Microsoft stopped support for Itanium processors - Win 2008 R2 and Visual Studio 2010 are the last supported platforms that work with the Itanium Processor. - https://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9174798/Microsoft_ending_support_for_Itanium
Nate Oliver MVP (Expert):
Q: I saw that answer on JET drivers... What is the current state of play with running SQL queries against tabulated data in an Excel range? Do we still have the problem with database drivers spawning separate Excel.exe instances?
A: Not an answer but a follow-up, how are you using SQL in this instance?
Bill Jelen [MVP] (Expert):
Q: Has anyone had experience using One Note as an electronic filing system? I'd like to use it for HR purposes.
A: OneNote is great at storing all sorts of free-format information. It is searchable. But, it won't replace a format database. You could have one notebook per department, one tab per employee and store information for each employee there.
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: is Online Archive always going to limited to the Office Professional Plus version?
A: Are you referencing Exchange 2010 server based archiving?
Justin Rodino [mvp] (Expert):
Q: I use IE8 and subscribe to RSS feeds and webslices. Is there a way to sync these feeds/subscriptions between two computers and the articles I've already marked read? Thanks
A: I'd suggest looking at Live Mesh 2011 to sync between computers, as favorites is one of the common things people are beginning to sync and slices and rss feeds are considered files in your favorites. https://explore.live.com/windows-live-mesh
Crystal Long -Access (Expert):
Q: Error Message: cannot update 'ReceiveFromCommand'; field not updateable
A: What application are you using? and what are you doing to trigger this error message?
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
Q: Does the new MS-Access support native XML document data types? (I haven't seen 2010). If not, do you have any plan to support XML data chunks? (something like SQL Server's XQuery and the like).
A: We are leveraging Access to work with MS Project / Project Server and work in importing, exporting XML. Very effective.
Echo Swinford (Expert):
Q: Is there a registry setting or other tweak that allow ppt2010 to "keep inking on" when you advance from one slide to another? i.e. the default logic in ppt2007.
A: There is actually a fix in the works for this, and MS is looking for beta testers.
Stephanie Krieger (Expert):
Q: In Word 2010, when you use Save & Send to PDF, does it get rid of the metadata?
A: What type of metadata is it that you want to get rid of? Are you familiar with the Inspect Document feature? PDF documents do carry along some user information (such as the name of the document author).
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
Q: Well then as a feature request, wouldn’t it be possible to have SharePoint automatically tag documents with the SharePoint source location, and then have office check the that source every time the document is opened, and perform a one way sync?
A: I can post that with the Product group. I like to think outside the box, what would is the result or requirement that you are trying to achieve
Stephanie Krieger (Expert):
Q: Word 2010: In 2007 version, View Outline mode will show up a "Outlining" tab which allows immediate creation or insertion of sub documents in a master document. How is that possible in 2010 version, now that I could not find the 'outlining' tab. Than
A: On the View tab, click Outline - you'll get an Outline tab on the Ribbon.
Andrew Lavinsky MVP (Expert):
Q: Have the shifts from peer support on online newsgroups to forums been successful? How do you measure it?
A: It all depends on your perspective. For a lot of us, there really wasn't so much of a shift, as the NNTP bridge allows for continued use of our newsgroup software. The alerts and tracking features are way better IMHO. The main issue was the lost archive of historical material, but that can be found in the Google archives still. In some of those forums, I know the daily number of open questions is tracked as a rough metric. I would also assume that sheer volume factors in.
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Is there a reason BSOD is making a comeback in Windows7?
A: System Instability and System Hangs in Windows can be attributed to a number of factors, such as poorly written drivers, incompatible drivers or applications that are accessing the kernel in Windows. Make sure all your drivers are up to date, specifically, LAN (Ethernet), Wireless Adapters, external devices that might attached your computer and your video card.
Aryeh Goretsky (Expert):
Q: Just out of curiosity, does Windows SideShow support a PocketPC (Windows Mobile 6) when connected via USB?
A: Windows SideShow uses specific programming and connection instructions, so unless your PocketPC manufacturer specifically implemented support for them, it's not likely. The https://www.sideshowdevices.com/ web site has a list of the ones which are compatible.
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: When Microsoft suggests technology of hierarchical tasks in Outlook with parent/child relationships between tasks?
A: hierarchical tasks are not currently available and at this time, there are no plans to add it to future versions.
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: What is the email address to use to forward suggestions to product development teams (Windows, in particular)?
A: Click the link below to let Microsoft know what you think.https://mymfe.microsoft.com/Windows%207/Feedback.aspx?formID=195
Nate Oliver MVP (Expert):
Q: I have window xp home sp3 my google mail account is not opening what I need to do?
A: I would reboot? Clear out your IE temp files and cache.
Doug Yudovich (Expert):
Q: I have window xp home sp3 my Google mail account is not opening what I need to do?
A: Can you access or log into any other site?
Crystal Long -Access (Expert):
Q: Well, I'm not actually talking about Importing/Exporting data from other data sources. I would like to know if there'll be any support for having XML Data types in MS-Access.
A: Access 2010 supports linking to XML files so you can work with them as tables. I have not experimented with complex xml structures, but this works well with simple ones - Crystal
Stephanie Krieger (Expert):
Q: Q: [88] [4] Word 2010: In 2007 version, View Outline mode will show up a "Outlining" tab which allows immediate creation or insertion of sub documents in a master document. How is that possible in 2010 version, now that I could not find the 'outlining' tab
A: On the View tab, click Outline - you'll get an Outline tab on the Ribbon.
Jay Ferron MVP (Expert):
Q: Is Microsoft Surface going to be aimed at the consumer level any time? With Tablets gaining popularity, it'd make sense.
A: the sdk for surface is does not share code for building win 7 apps but the underline technology of tablet and surface are different so you can migrate a surface to win 7
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
Q: Is Microsoft Surface going to be aimed at the consumer level any time? With Tablets gaining popularity, it'd make sense.
A: Look at what is coming with Windows phones in December of this year
Glenna Shaw PPT MVP (Expert):
Q: Hello, Is there a replacement of Netmeeting in Windows 7, as apparently windows meeting space was retired after Vista ?
A: There are multiple options, there's LiveMeeting, Office Communicator, SharePoint Workspace and MS Messenger.
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Hello, Is there a replacement of Netmeeting in Windows 7, as apparently windows meeting space was retired after Vista ?
A: Microsoft has a number solutions available, such as Microsoft Office SharePoint Workspace 2010, Microsoft Office Live Meeting (now called Lync), Microsoft Shared View and Windows Live Messenger. Learn more about Shared View: https://connect.microsoft.com/site/sitehome.aspx?SiteID=94
Tushar Mehta MVP (Expert):
Q: Using Excel with multiple monitors can be quite painful as Excel always seems to insist on using MDI. I know it can be changed by changing the file association in XP (though I have no idea how to change that on Windows 7), but it seems that every so often Office "fixes" the association to re-enable DDE. Is there a way to permanently make it so I can view two different Excel spreadsheets on two different screens?
A: This might not be the answer you are looking for...
Usually, I have a single instance of Excel with multiple workbooks open in it. When I do want to open a workbook in another instance of Excel I just run Excel and then open the workbook in that instance. It works for me because the latter is something I do only occasionally.
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: search syntax : when will search syntax be same in both outlook and explorer. now there are different results for the same query.
A: Search syntax *should* be the same between Desktop Search and Outlook 2007/2010 as they both use the same queries and index.
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
Q: Does anyone know when the Multi-Language Pack will become available? Looking for the Office 2010 Proofing Tools Kit.
A: I know we are leveraging this for book work done in Word and translated to Spanish. What language are you not seeing available?
Stephanie Krieger (Expert):
Q: Hi Stephanie. It was a question from one of our lawyers so it would be any personal information linked to the creator or modifier of documents. Yes, I did research and find the inspector and it looked like it got all that information out but I just wanted
A: Looks like your explanation got cut off ... but if there is author info in your Word document, that is included in a PDF by default. So, the Inspector will get rid of that before you save\send as PDF. If you meant to ask something else - please repost.
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Is Office Update still dead and only available via WU ?
A: Updates for Microsoft Office products are now distributed through Windows Update service in Windows 7 and Vista. You can also obtain updates for Microsoft Office through https://www.microsoft.com/downloads
Digital Dave (Expert):
Q: Hello, Is there a replacement of Netmeeting in Windows 7, as apparently windows meeting space was retired after Vista ?
A: No.. and that has been something a LOT of us have been asking about but it seems there will never be a comeback of Netmeeting. Microsoft has said to use either the Windows XP Mode (https://www.microsoft.com/windows/virtual-pc/) or (and Microsoft did not say this but I've tried it and it works) give this hack a shot - <https://techgyaan.wordpress.com/2008/09/14/windows-vista-doesnt-support-default-netmeeting/>
Joe Anderson-Access (Expert):
Q: Why has Microsoft not fixed the mouse wheel problem in Word 2007 and Word 2010?
A: Not sure about Word/Excel, but this works for Access in VBA ... FWIW
Aryeh Goretsky (Expert):
Q: Hello, Is there a replacement of Netmeeting in Windows 7, as apparently windows meeting space was retired after Vista ?
A: You may be able to run NetMeeting in XP Mode under Windows 7, but keep in mind this legacy application uses many older network protocols (H.323, for example) that do not work very well with things like NATed connections. You might want to look at using Windows Live Messenger, Microsoft Office Live Meeting or Microsoft Lync 2010, instead.
Jay Ferron MVP (Expert):
Q: You may have noticed that a lot of the banks and brokerages in New York and London are still using Excel 2003 - I haven't seen Excel 2007 on ANY trading floor or dev room in London, NY or Frankfurt - is Microsoft planning to do any kind of marketing push or roadshow for traders, analysts and tactical developers? It's surprising that such a large market is refusing the latest products...
A: the new that you want to know about is with excel 2010 plus you can use hPC to use multiple computer to speed up excel form days to hours
Beth Melton (Expert):
Q: @Beth Milton - RE: Proofing tools - Yes. Thanks for the link, though. That information says that the 2010 Proofing Tools is available in the Multilanguage page, but that the Multi-language pack is not available yet. Other sites say the same thing, but then go onto instruct you to install the proofing tools for each individual language. Isn't there an easier way? Will the 2010 Proofing Tools Kit be released eventually?
A: Usually the Proofing Tools Kit will become available when all the localization is finished for all Office languages. Unfortunately, I don’t know when that will be but I do know one is planned. If you have a volume license agreement you might check with your MS rep to see if they know more.
Tim Runcie ~ MVP (Expert):
Q: You may have noticed that a lot of the banks and brokerages in New York and London are still using Excel 2003 - I haven't seen Excel 2007 on ANY trading floor or dev room in London, NY or Frankfurt - is Microsoft planning to do any kind of marketing push or roadshow for traders, analysts and tactical developers? It's surprising that such a large market is refusing the latest products...
A: What I am seeing is that many of these firms are waiting for 2010. The hop from 2003 to 2007, was a bit dicey and the ribbon really was hard for people to swallow, but all the elements with 2010 are extremely helpful for the financial sector
Justin Rodino (Expert):
Q: I am going from Vista Business to Windows 7 Home Premium and this will not work
A: You cannot go from a Business SKU to a home user SKU
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: I'd like to know how to revert to the last stable version of Windows Live. Quite honestly, this Beta version is a resource hog and I am not thrilled with the performance
A: Microsoft recently released the final version of Windows Live Essentials 2011, you can download it now, remember to uninstall the beta version first. (Click Start, type Programs and features, hit Enter on your keyboard, scroll down, select Windows Live Essentials beta, and click Uninstall on the Command Bar). https://explore.live.com/windows-live-essentials
Ken Slovak MVP (Expert):
Q: why is search syntax different in outlook than in win 7 explorer ?
A: It's the same search engine and the search terms should be the same.
Nate Oliver MVP (Expert):
Q: Any way to delay the dialog "This program has stopped responding..."? When it comes on, it only lasts for a second or two before the program starts responding again. Registry hack, perhaps?
A: Yes, defrag and clean up your PC.
Zack Barresse (Expert):
Q: Word 2010: On View tab, click Outline, I still do not get Outline tab. Would there probably be an option that I did not have, which thus I did not have that 'outlining' tab appearing? thanks again.
A: Right click the Ribbon, select Customize. On the right pane you should see Outlining. Make sure it is checked or you will not see that tab when you're in that view.
Justin Rodino (Expert):
Q: Okay So what can I do with this Home Premium because the store will not refund
A: You will have to migrate your data off of Vista Business and start fresh with Home Premium. To upgrade from Vista Business you'll need to go to 7 Ultimate
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: I am going from Vista Business to Windows 7 Home Premium and this will not work
A: As follow up to Justin's answer, please see the appropriate upgrade paths for Windows 7: https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd772579%28WS.10%29.aspx
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: I am going from Vista Business to Windows 7 Home Premium and this will not work
A: This is technically a downgrade. the comparable version of business is win 7 pro - have to go from the same SKU or higher in an upgrade
Stephanie Krieger (Expert):
Q: @Stephanie : The mouse wheel does NOT WORK in Word 2007 and Word 2010. It WORKS in Access. But to try to scroll in Word, it DOES NOT WORK
A: The mouse wheel works for me ... I've never heard of this issue. Have confirmed the same with several other MVPs on this call.
Ken Slovak MVP (Expert):
Q: Hi, I want to personalize an outlook calendar print style to have 03 months on one page but I did found any think on the web regarding this. Is there any VBA Issue ?
A: To do something like that, or any other customized printing needs you can use VBA code to put the data into a template in Word or Excel. Both of those applications have more flexible printing and formatting options than Outlook does.
Digital Dave (Expert):
Q: Does Outlook 2010 calendar have Autopick or is it just suggested times only now?
A: Outlook 2010 standalone can do autopick - Outlook on an exchange server has "suggested times" with AutoPick showing up if needed.
Justin Rodino (Expert):
Q: Outlook 2010 Instant Search does not return any results when started in App-V, if the mailbox is in cached mode, do you know more about this ?
A: If you're running Outlook 2010 in App-V it depends on how the application is sequenced and what access the virtual "bubble" has access to.
Aryeh Goretsky (Expert):
Q: The mouse wheel does NOT WORK in Word 2007 and Word 2010. It WORKS in Access. But to try to scroll in Word, it DOES NOT WORK
A: Which version of Microsoft Windows are you running, what brand and model of mouse are you using and how does it connect to your computer? I just tried opening a multipage document in Word 2010 under Windows 7 and using my Microsoft Trackball Optical's scroll wheel was able to navigate the document, so I wonder if the latest device drivers for your mouse might not be installed. Also, make sure you have the latest BIOS firmware and device drivers updates installed from your computer's hardware manufacturer, as these may contain performance improvements. Also, make sure you have the latest updates available from Microsoft for your Windows installation.
Tushar Mehta MVP (Expert):
Q: Now that the "canvas" is gone in Word2010 non-compatibility mode, is there a way to select ink with a "lasso" like tool or even a rectangle selection tool.? Currently you need to select multiple "pieces" of ink with Ctrl-Click.
A: From what I can tell, Word2010 does not support a lasso or rectangle selection capability. You have to ctrl-click to select multiple ink items. By contrast, in PowerPoint there is an explicit 'Lasso Select' button (just to the left of the 'Select Objects' button).
Tushar Mehta MVP (Expert):
Q: Thanks @Tushar, it has something to do with the file type? In W2010 docx does not support it, but Word2010 doc format does.
A: Yes, you are right. It is a file format issue. There was a change in Word 2010 to use the new graphics engine for the docx format and it appears that the ability to lasso multiple ink objects is missing. I *hope* it will be restored in the future.
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Any plans to update Aero Snap to use corners instead of just sides? Third party tools do it currently, but want to see it done natively.
A: Click the link below to let Microsoft know what you think. <https://mymfe.microsoft.com/Windows%207/Feedback.aspx?formID=195>
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: Outlook 2010 Instant Search does not return any results when started in App-V, if the mailbox is in cached mode, do you know more about this ?
A: Addins and external programs don't work with outlook in click to run. You need to use an installed version instead.
Jay Ferron MVP (Expert):
Q: Another question : Do you know if there is any way to improve Windows 7 boot time. apart from disabling services(with msconfig) and using bypass mode in BIOS of the machine? any registry tricks or else ?
A: you could go to ssd
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Windows Live Mail - Will uninstalling the Beta and installing the new version 2011 retain settings and existing emails?
A: Yes it will.
Zack Barresse (Expert):
Q: can I ask A question about XBOX and what MS is doing
A: This is an Office and Windows chat, but you can always just shoot and see if anyone knows.
Jay Ferron MVP (Expert):
Q: Are there any plans to extend the Lookup, Match and Find capabilities of Excel? In particular, fuzzy-matching and the concept of a 'closest match' ? It is possible to implement Levenshtein edit distance algorithms (or the equivalent sum-of-common-strings)
A: you can buy custom xll that add additional functions to excel that do that
Tushar Mehta MVP (Expert):
Q: Are there any plans to extend the Lookup, Match and Find capabilities of Excel? In particular, fuzzy-matching and the concept of a 'closest match' ? It is possible to implement Levenshtein edit distance algorithms (or the equivalent sum-of-common-strings)
A: That's a great idea and I would love to see it native to Excel. Unfortunately, if I knew, that information would be covered by an NDA and I couldn't share it here. Have you checked the Excel team blog?
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: Diane - is there a tutorial or more details that we can provide to our users on Suggested Times?
A: Not that I'm aware of (but I’ll work on something).
Bill Jelen [MVP] (Expert):
Q: Are there any plans to extend the Lookup, Match and Find capabilities of Excel? In particular, fuzzy-matching and the concept of a 'closest match' ? It is possible to implement Levenshtein edit distance algorithms (or the equivalent sum-of-common-strings)
A: Fuzzy match is a tool in the Easy-XL utility: www.Easy-XL.com
Crystal Long -Access (Expert):
Q: Hi, I sow today a question on the MSDN French forum asking about the compatibility of the ACCESS 2010 with Windows Server 2003 is it compatible with just the R2 version or both and if just the R2 can I know why ?
A: Are you hoping to set up a SharePoint server with Access Services? If so, you need to use 2008 and 64-bit
Jay Ferron MVP (Expert):
Q: Including SSD drive, by pass in the BIOS , recent machine with Windows 7, any registry key we could enable to boot more rapidly ? I know this the machine is joined to a domain with group policies depending on how much there is to process it can take time,
A: without knowing gpo are running you done as much as you can
Justin Rodino (Expert):
Q: Including SSD drive, by pass in the BIOS , recent machine with Windows 7, any registry key we could enable to boot more rapidly ? I know this the machine is joined to a domain with group policies depending on how much there is to process it can take time,
A: Win 7 is optimized for boot both on SSD drives as well as basic drives. You should see performance differences between the SSD drive and legacy drives. Are you?
Zack Barresse (Expert):
Q: thank you, What should we expect to see from MS in the near further as far as XBOX players and the defenses against hacking codes at the server level
A: At the moment, really all you can look for are updates. There is a dashboard update preparing to come out, I believe it just came out of beta testing.
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: Just some general feedback I'm getting from Win 7 users to the WLM Team, WLM feels too "Webby" - a Web like feeling...
A: At the upper right hand side of the Windows Live Messenger window simply click the single view button in the upper right hand corner of the window.
Justin Rodino (Expert):
Q: with a goal of high availability, how does one do windows updates without having to reboot and wait for "configuring updates"? can Live Migration help and, if so, how?
A: Are you referring to the workstation or the server infrastructure on this one?
Aryeh Goretsky (Expert):
Q: Just some general feedback I'm getting from Win 7 users to the WLM Team, WLM feels too "Webby" - a Web like feeling...
A: Microsoft can take that feedback with them, but as a general response from someone who's spent most of his career supporting software, user interfaces tend to change over time for various reasons, such as to support new functionality or features, user accessibility requirements and take advantage of new technologies.
Diane Poremsky (Expert):
Q: outlook 2010: Clean Up Tools - archive (into .pst folder) - question is when I select archiving date (as in 'archive items older than...[date]'), will all my contacts be archived? since there is no 'date' stamped to the contacts creation...
A: No, contacts are not included in Auto archive.
Justin Rodino (Expert):
Q: with a goal of high availability, how does one do windows updates without having to reboot and wait for "configuring updates"? can Live Migration help and, if so, how?
A: With HA, you'd probably have clustered servers or Hyper-V HA using SCVMM to accomplish this
Chad Solarz - MVP (Expert):
Q: Does Windows 7 support software based RAID similar to the Server platform?
A: Yes it does, as long as you’re on a desktop platform and the disks are dynamic
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: I guess there is a bug in windows live mail. when I receive a new message there appear an icon to show there is a new. but when I read that message, it show that icon still.(most of the time).is there way to resolve ?
A: Have you tried repairing your Windows Live Essentials installation or try reinstalling the suite?
Andre Da Costa (Expert):
Q: 2) I’m having an issue where even once someone’s added w/ access to your inbox and folder structure, they can’t seem to find the person’s folders (i.e. when backing someone up and having to search their email folders for an issue that was already in progress
A: You might want to check the Windows Live Solution Center to see if the problem has been encountered/answered: https://windowslivehelp.com
Melissa Travers MSFT (Moderator):
That about wraps things up for our Chat about Windows and Office today. We will try to make the answers available in the chat transcript in about 2 weeks. Today’s chat transcript when posted will be available online, and we will post the link on our blog and Facebook event page.
You can find out more information about any upcoming events on the MVP Award Program blog <https://blogs.msdn.com/mvpawardprogram/> where you can also find original articles written by the MVPs each Monday. As well as the Communities Technical Chat page along with an Add to Calendar reminder <https://www.microsoft.com/communities/chats/default.mspx> . To find out more about the MVP Award Program, please go to the Microsoft Most Valuable Professional site <https://mvp.support.microsoft.com/>
A big thank you to our MVPs for sharing their time and expertise with us today. And thank you to all our guests for joining us and asking so many great questions. Have a good day everyone!