Search doesn't look in all file types

[JDR]

I'm using XP Pro but when I run a search from within Explorer it doesn't
seem to look in certain files for the criteria entered.

As an example I enter "*.php" in the file name and "update" in the phrase,
although I know "update" is in one of my ".php" files it doesn't return any
results.

Any ideas?

Thanks

 

[Anando [MS-MVP]]

Hello,

I have never been a fan of the Windows XP search functionality. You might want to have a look at the
alternative MSN desktop search tool.

Windows Desktop Search
http://desktop.msn.com/

--

Anando
Microsoft MVP- Windows Shell/User
http://www.microsoft.com/mvp
http://www.mvps.org


Folder customizations
http://newdelhi.sancharnet.in/minku

Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/protect

 

[Guest]

According to my search:
the first entry is looking for "filenames"!!
the second entry is looking for words/phrases "inside" the file. Not looking
at filename. that is function of first entry.
So if your looking for file with "update" in "filename", it should be
entered as part of "*.php"!! like "upda*.php"
If it is not finding it by "*.php", then either there is no "update.php", or
putting update in the phrase is limiting the search such that "update.php",
doesn't have the word or phrase "update" inside the file, only in filename.

I think the latter is true. putting in word/phrase search eliminates
"update.php" from the search results.

 

[JDR]

I must not have worded my question properly but the search is supposed to
look for the word "update" in the content of any ".php" file, hence my
syntax which says:

"*.php" entered in the file name and "update" in the phrase.

Jeff...

 

[Torgeir Bakken \(MVP\)]

I'm using XP Pro but when I run a search from within Explorer it doesn't
seem to look in certain files for the criteria entered.

As an example I enter "*.php" in the file name and "update" in the phrase,
although I know "update" is in one of my ".php" files it doesn't return any
results.

Any ideas?

Hi,

WinXP's search function filters out files to search in based on file
extensions (see further below).

Install the free Agent Ransack, it searches for text strings in *all*
types of files, and not just in a selection of "approved" file
extensions as the built-in search does. In my opinion it is a better
search tool as well...

Download it from here:
http://www.mythicsoft.com/agentransack/default.aspx

Agent Ransack can save the search result to a file (or clipboard), as text,
comma separated text or tab separated text. E.g. Excel reads comma separated
text (csv) very well.

When searching for text inside files, Agent Ransack is also able to do a
preview of the lines the text was found in (just do a single click on the
found file).
Also, you can use regular expression on both the file name part and the find
text in files part.


If you still want to use the search tool that comes with WinXP to
search for text in files, take a look at this:

Using the "A Word or Phrase in the File" Search Criterion May Not Work
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;309173

Or this:

Add Files to Containing text Searches
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/scripts_desc/xp_fix_search.htm

 

[Guest]

I may have missed interpreted your statement.

I usually do all my search from root directory (C:\).

That way it looks in all directories and subfolders. Can do advanced search
where search looks in system and hidden files/folders.

I have used the word search before and worked fine. Of course, since search
is looking for text inside the file, it will take considerable more time to
show the results. so be patient.

 

[JDR]

I must not have worded my question properly but the search is supposed to
look for the word "update" in the content of any ".php" file, hence my
syntax which says:

"*.php" entered in the file name and "update" in the phrase.

Jeff...