Seemingly random .tmp files

[Guest]

Seemingly random temp files are appearing in a directory where I maintain
three excel files that are accessed by multiple users.

I have three excel files stored in a single directory on my company's
network. The files are accessed by Store Managers through our VPN via Citrix.

I update these files in the mornings, and Store Mgrs add their comments
throughout the day to sections relevant to their particular store.

For the past three weeks, when I access the directory to update the files,
there are up to 100 files that look like .tmp files. However, there are no
endings on the file names (e.g., C2D05100). If I sort by Type, they are all
together, but Type = File and not Tmp File like I would expect with a .tmp
file.

I can delete them easily enough... but I don't know why they are appearing.
I've maintained the three files in the same directory for over 9 months...
and this issue has just arisen in the past three weeks. I can't spot anything
different about the properties or options.

I've been told that it could be related to a recent MicroSoft update.

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Lee

 

[Dave Peterson]

When excel saves the file, it saves it as a temporary file with a funny name (8
characters--no extension).

If the save is successful, xl will delete the original (or rename it to its
backup name (like "backup of book1.xlk)) and if that's successful, xl will
rename the funny named file to the original's name.

Common things that get blamed for interruptions to this process are antivirus
software poking its head in or network errors--either permissions or physical
problems.

 

[Guest]

Thanks Dave. I'm sure this is what's happening... I just can't figure out
why it didn't happen for 9 months... and now happens everyday. Something
systemic has happened... I need to figure out how to prevent it from
continuing to happen.

I just deleted 56 of these temp files totalling almost 300 MB. One of my
three primary files is 12 MB (formula intensive)... so this newly occurring
event has quickly become a huge thorn in my side.

Thanks again,
Lee

 

[Dave Peterson]

First, I would be careful with the mass deleting.

That file may have the current updates in it--and the nicely named file may be
out of date.

Second, I think it's time for detective work.

I'd start by turning off the antivirus software to see if the problem goes away.

Third, I'd look at permissions. Maybe you can isolate it to one person updating
the file????