Microsoft Excel 2013 - "Error Sending The Command to the Program"

[Bootman 650]

Has anyone come across this before? Its frustrating me to hell!

I've been through pages and pages of google trying to find a fix, none of which seem to work at all although its a well documented problem. When you try to open files direct from file explorer you recieve an error - "Error sending command to the program". If you open excel from the program shortcut and open the files through excel it works fine. It also works opening from file explorer as long as the application is already open.

1. I've tried clearing the Ignore other applications that use Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE) check box in the General area.
2. I've tried numerous registry fixes listed by various people.
3. I have checked all file associations permissions and program shortcuts.
4. I've tried using an alternative user profile.
5. I've tried a full online office repair.
6. I have tried removing office using revo, cleaning the registry and re-installing.

Its boring me to tears and driving me mad now. I can't face nuking and paving the machine, with all the data and bespoke software they've got it will be a right nightmare backing up and restoring files and re-installing and configuring all of their software.

 

[Moltuae]

Office 'Click-to-Run', right?

Jeez, I really hate Click-to-Run. Had lots of similar issues with it myself.

Trying to remember what I did the last time I came across this. Pretty sure I re-installed Office, but first un-installed click-to-run too and cleared out any settings before re-installing. Just un-installing click-to-run then re-installing it by repairing/re-installing Office may work too.

You should be able to re-install the full (non-click-to-run) version using the existing key too. I'd recommend doing that if possible.

 

[Slaters Kustum Machines]

Typically #1 fixes it 99% of the time for me. Have you ruled out malware, ran sfc /scannow, chkdsk /r (sounds odd, but fixes weird issues sometimes)? What OS? Also did you try uninstalling using the official MS uninstall tool: https://support.office.com/en-in/ar...computer-9dd49b83-264a-477a-8fcc-2fdf5dbf61d8

 

[Bootman 650]

Office 'Click-to-Run', right?

Jeez, I really hate Click-to-Run. Had lots of similar issues with it myself.

Trying to remember what I did the last time I came across this. Pretty sure I re-installed Office, but first un-installed click-to-run too and cleared out any settings before re-installing. Just un-installing click-to-run then re-installing it by repairing/re-installing Office may work too.

You should be able to re-install the full (non-click-to-run) version using the existing key too. I'd recommend doing that if possible.

Ayup @Moltuae, hows it going pal? No, actually its not. Although I do hate that click to run horse ****. Its running Microsoft Office 365 Small Business Premium.

Typically #1 fixes it 99% of the time for me. Have you ruled out malware, ran sfc /scannow, chkdsk /r (sounds odd, but fixes weird issues sometimes)? What OS? Also did you try uninstalling using the official MS uninstall tool: https://support.office.com/en-in/ar...computer-9dd49b83-264a-477a-8fcc-2fdf5dbf61d8

Thanks, they were on my list of things to try. Might also give the old tweaking.com chestnut a run-out! I shall return when either of the following two things happens. A) The problem is cured or B) I've put a sledgehammer through the thing!

 

[Moltuae]

Ayup @Moltuae, hows it going pal?

Ayup back atcha Bootman. It's going alreet. Ta for asking

I hope you find the problem, or a suitable sledgehammer, soon.

 

[Bootman 650]

So,

Completely scanned for Malware, no infections.
Ran SFC Scan, found problems and successfully repaired but problem remains.
Ran CHKDSK, problem still persists.

I'm just running the All-in-one repair tool at the moment.

In the mean time I think I've found a tool that should be 'sufficient' for the task I may have on my hands.

 

[Slaters Kustum Machines]

So,

Completely scanned for Malware, no infections.
Ran SFC Scan, found problems and successfully repaired but problem remains.
Ran CHKDSK, problem still persists.

I'm just running the All-in-one repair tool at the moment.

In the mean time I think I've found a tool that should be 'sufficient' for the task I may have on my hands.

Holy Crap, that looks like it would be useful just to have around for special occasions, where might one purchase these?

Edit: http://www.amazon.com/Innovation-Factory-Truckers-All-Purpose-Survival/dp/B005HAT9SM

 

[Bootman 650]

Well, words cannot explain how relieved I feel that the problem is resolved.

Tweaking.com All-in-one Repair, you beauty! Thanks for all the help as always chaps. This thread will serve as a good reference for anyone who experiences the same issue. Might mean they're able to fix it before going grey

Chris

 

[Bootman 650]

Holy Crap, that looks like it would be useful just to have around for special occasions, where might one purchase these?

Edit: http://www.amazon.com/Innovation-Factory-Truckers-All-Purpose-Survival/dp/B005HAT9SM

You should buy one, they look awesome don't they.

 

[E Bell]

Have you checked the compatibility mode settings?

 

[Bootman 650]

Have you checked the compatibility mode settings?

Hi E Bell, I've sorted it now with the All-In-One tool but yes I had previously checked the compatibility mode settings. Thanks bud.