Printing external files from Foxpro

[sarahblovely]

Is there a way to get Foxpro to print files that are not reports or programs etc. I need to create an entry screen were the user selects a work order and can print all associated documentation including drawings and parts lists. These could be pdf files or CAD files. What command would make it possible for Foxpro to print these non Foxpro files without converting them or anything? Is this possible?

 

[rgbean]

Sarah,
It's not really as easy in FPW as it would be in VFP, but if the application has a command line capability, then you could use it. e.g. The following will print any text file (remember the 8.3 filename limitations):

run /n notepad.exe /p c:\autoexec.bat

Rick

 

[sarahblovely]

I have been reading about _shellexecute() in VFP. Can one run this in older Foxpro?

 

[rgbean]

Since FPW can't directly call 32-bit DLL's you'll need to use CALL32. The CALL32.ZIP file is on Rick Strahl's site at

http://www.west-wind.com/wwfp2pd.htm,

and includes the necessary files and some demo code.

Note: Back when I was using this, I found that while CALL32 works for many 32-bit API calls, others can fail and "hang" the program / workstation - use only when necessary and test on all potential OS platforms.

Rick