We're running Excel 2003 with the 2007 compatibility pack.  On a computer when we double-click only .xlsx files, we get "there was a problem sending the command to the program" in a pop-up error box, but then the spreadsheet opens.  If we open Excel then double-click the file, it opens fine.

Everything works as expected with .xls files though, it's only .xlsx files it appears.  I tried reinstalling the compatibility pack with a run as while the user was logged in, it still has the same issue.

Here is the tip to solve the problem:

Office Button|Excel Options|Advanced|General|Uncheck "Ignore other applications that use DDE"

We may also try repairing your Office installation to fix the problem, for example via Add/Remove Programs in Control Panel.

Cheers,
Tony Chen
Forum Support
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Hi,

Just checking in to see if the information was helpful. Please let us know if you would like further assistance.

Cheers,
Tony Chen
Forum Support
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The problem resolved itself with a restart, but that option you speak of is in a different spot in Excel 2003.

Glad to hear the issue is gone. The steps I provided is for Excel 2010/2013. I have no Excel 2003 in my home that time and lack of source to point the right spot. Sorry.

Cheers,
Tony Chen
Forum Support
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Come back and mark the replies as answers if they help and unmark them if they provide no help.
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