Unexpected file format in Flash 3

[southtacoma]

I am trying to follow a tutorial which was included in an English magazine. There were files included on the CD, but when I try to open some of the .fla files I am given an 'Unexpected file format' error message. I can open the .swf files with no problems, but of course this doesn't help me with the layers, libraries, scripts etc.
The strange thing is that some of the .fla files on the CD can be opened, and some have the error message????
I have tried to open the files in both MX and MX2004 with the same result. Any ideas?
PS:- I don't know how I ended up being an Instructor, it's like getting a medal without going to the war?????

 

[Adam14]

The only time I get this is if I'm trying to open an fla. from a version higher than the one I am using...the fact you can't open it with mx2004, that's confusing to me....sorry I have nothing more to add, good luck.

Adam

 

[oldnewbie]

If they were originally Mac created .flas, the only way a PC user can open them up is if they're zipped up. Works the other way around, but not from Mac to PC.

 

[southtacoma]

Thanks Adam and Oldnewbie. I too was confused with not being able to open "down" through versions, but I think that oldnewbie may have the answer.
Perhaps the magazine has burned a mixture of PC and Mac files onto its cover disk (not really very clever). And unfortunately they weren't zipped, but were simple .fla files.
I have been trying to contact the magazine, but their website is down. Looks like I will just have to put up with it. Thanks for your valuable help.

 

[southtacoma]

Oh! And I forgot to ask, just how do you open a Mac Flash file in a PC? Perhaps I should start a new thread to find an answer. I have just spent an hour trawling the net and found nothing.

 

[Adam14]

I don't think it can be done. That's why it needs to be zipped, but I don't have a Mac, nor have I had to try this...so I might be off. Good luck finding a solution...don't happen to have any friends with Macs, do ya? ;-)

 

[southtacoma]

Thanks Adam14, but I don't know anyone with a Mac. I have posted a new thread asking about how to do the conversion. Maybe one of the experts may have an answer.