To share files across multiple computer platforms, files must conform to the lowest common denominator of file naming conventions, namely ISO9660. This utility lists all files in a selected folder (and sub folders) that do not conform to ISO9660, DOS '8.3' / Windows™ 3.1 or Windows95™ naming conventions. Folder names, lowercase characters and invalid DOS extensions can also be checked for.
This utility is particularly useful in the production of hybrid (cross platform) CD-ROMs where all shared files names must conform to ISO9660. Some authoring systems like Macromedia Director, create links to specific file names. If these names are invalid on other operating systems, the application will not find those files at runtime. For the files to be recognised, they will need to be relinked, and the application 'recompiled' - sometimes a time consuming process. CD-ROM burning software also requires that crossplatform filenames conform to ISO9660, often renaming or truncating such invalid files.
Even when conscious of file naming conventions, it is still easy to create bad filenames through the slightest slip up. Deleting characters at the end of a filename and leaving a trailing space is an easy mistake. eg "FILENAME.DIR" is valid "FILENAME.DIR " (note the space), is not. Large collaborative projects where every member is not fully aware of cross platform naming conventions is another source of naming problems.
The most insidious source of filenaming errors, is the Windows NT fileserver.
At least one version of the fileserving software running on these otherwise OK servers, converts delete keystrokes on the Mac client end, into delete ASCII characters when renaming files. For example, you have a team of filename literate workers all saving files to an NT server. Whenever someone uses the 'delete' key on the Macintosh keyboard to rename a file on the server, an illegal delete character is added to the name so "MISTAKESS.TXT" with the last "S" deleted is now "MISTAKES.TXT" The Finder displays it as "MISTAKES.TXT"
Hence the Hybrid Filename Checker, which lists such files.
What this utility does not do:
• Hybrid Filename Checker only checks file names, it does not check the validity of the contents of the files.
• Hybrid Filename Checker only checks for compatible file names, and does not report volumes which break the ISO9660 requirement of having a maximum of 8 folder hierarchies (including root level).
• Checking cannot be stopped midway through a search.
• Filenames containing the comma character "," (which are incompatible with ISO9660 and DOS '8:3' / Windows 3.1) are reported in the display window with a ASCII value. eg. "TEST,DIR" will be listed as " TEST[33]DIR"
• Filenames containing the control and other invisible characters are reported in the display window with an ASCII value replacing the character. eg. "TESTDIR" will be listed as " TEST[16]DIR"
• Hybrid Filename Checker does not check inside folders, where the name of that folder contains the comma or control or non-visible characters. Correct the name and it will.
• Hybrid Filename Checker does not check for valid pathname lengths (Windows 3.1 -127 characters, Windows95™ - 260 chars)
• If over 32,000 characters of filenames is reached in a search, any further characters will not be displayed in the report field. (oh sweet textEdit)
Changes since version 1.0b1
• Hybrid Filename Checker now supports filenames using the ISO9660 version extension (eg."FILENAME.TXT;2"). One version digit only.
• Hybrid Filename Checker no longer reports the Finders invisible directory files in the file report (AppleShare PDS, Desktop, Desktop DB, Desktop DF, Shutdown Check and Icon[13]). Since all good CD-ROM mastering software ignores these, and they are not visible to users, they are no longer reported.
• Extensions on folder names are not allowed under ISO9660. Hybrid Filename Checker now reports these bad folder names.
• A wierd palette problem with scrolling text fields and low memory in 8 bit mode has been fixed.
• Other cosmetic fixes and speed tweaks.
Known bugs in version 1.0
• When checking files the cursor flickers between the pointer and the beach ball busy cursor. No easy workaround at this stage (sorry).
Carl Braga
Human Media Pty Ltd
Please email any bugs / suggestions to:
carlbraga@aapda.com.au
Thanks for assistance: Eric S. Coker - Ventana Online.
Hybrid Filename Checker is freely Distributable, as long as there is no potential for profit (direct or indirect) by the distributor.
