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Windows XP Virtual CD doesn’t like long file names

I came across a weird issue tonight with the Virtual CD-ROM Control Panel for Windows XP when I went to mount a DVD iso – it wouldn’t mount (Mount Failed) even after restarting the service and re-loading the device driver. Other DVD iso’s mounted just fine before it dawned on me that this particular iso had a really long file name (73 chars). I shortened it down to about 15 chars and it then mounted just fine.

I didn't find anything about this during a very quick search, so I’m posting this tip out here for others who might run across this issue and to remind myself in case I run across it again – if you get a Mount Failed in the Virtual CD tool, just try shortening the file name if it’s long!

Print | posted on Thursday, January 03, 2008 10:28 PM

Comments on this post

# re: Windows XP Virtual CD doesn’t like long file names

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Nice post Lou.

These types of posts help us all keep our sanity, when... strikes!

Cheers,

Karl
Left by Karl Shifflett on Jan 04, 2008 4:44 AM

# re: Windows XP Virtual CD doesn’t like long file names

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Thanks for the post .. saved me a few mins before I would figure it out myself ..

Cheers,
--
romil
Left by Romil on Feb 08, 2008 6:17 PM

# re: Windows XP Virtual CD doesn’t like long file names

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Glad it helped you! :)
Left by Lou on Feb 11, 2008 1:49 PM

# re: Windows XP Virtual CD doesn’t like long file names

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thx dude..was going nuts trying to figure this out
Left by yerrs on Mar 14, 2008 5:48 AM

# re: Windows XP Virtual CD doesn’t like long file names

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Thanks, I was trying to figure this out forever!
Left by RobScott on May 21, 2008 4:44 PM

# re: Windows XP Virtual CD doesn’t like long file names

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My thanks as well. I couldn't figure this out until I came across this post. Cheers!
Left by tehcdrom on Jul 19, 2008 10:45 AM

# re: Windows XP Virtual CD doesn’t like long file names

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I found that using the file's DOS 8.3 format short name worked around the problem. That way, I didn't have to rename the original file.

1. Use "dir /x" to obtain the short name.

2. When using "VcdControlTool", after you click "Mount", enter the short name in the "File name" field, instead of clicking on the file.
Left by Matt Seitz on Aug 27, 2008 7:29 PM

# re: Windows XP Virtual CD doesn’t like long file names

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Thanks, such an easy fix for a painful problem.
Left by john on Oct 24, 2008 10:46 AM

# re: Windows XP Virtual CD doesn’t like long file names

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Awesome! Very helpfull. Thanks very much, I just ran into this one myself. Post made my day.
Left by Knight on Dec 21, 2008 8:26 PM

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