Does an external cnt file need to be in the same folder as the master cnt file?

[SSchwa]

I'm working in RoboHelp Word and have inserted two external cnt files into a master cnt file. I've selected the option 'use full path' as the external help file is installed under a different folder than the master help file. However, I am unable to view the extneral cnt file from the master cnt file, unless all cnt and hlp files are installed in the same folder. Is it not possible to have the external cnt files under a different folder? Thanks for any assistance!

[Pete_Lees]

Hi, SSchwa, and welcome,

I believe that you can keep the files in different folders provided that they are in the help "search path". The following is from Microsoft's WinHelp Author's Guide:

quote:

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WinHelp now searches for Help files in the following locations, in the order listed.

* If a path is specified, WinHelp first searches for the file in the specified path. If the file is not found, the path is removed and the following locations are searched.

* The folder of the current Help file.

* The current folder.

* The System subfolder of the Windows folder.

* The Windows folder.

* The folders listed in the PATH environment.

* The location specified in the Winhelp.ini file.

* The registry.

If WinHelp cannot find a Help file, it displays a dialog box that enables the user to specify the location of the Help file. If the users finds the file, WinHelp will add the location information in the registry.

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As far as registering the .hlp and .cnt files is concerned, the registry key under which to do so is:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\Help

Pete

[SSchwa]

Thank you Pete! I was able to pass on the info re the registry key to the programmer who is building the installation for my help file and this worked!