Can't Open XPS Documents on Vista

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Just thought I'd post a quick observation I made on my laptop. Some time back I ran into an interesting issue on my laptop where I could create XPS documents using the "XPS Document Writer" printer or even using applications like Office 2007. I could even see a preview of it in Windows Explorer. But I could not open them.

I accidentally then discovered that if I change my colour scheme to Windows Basic, I can open any XPS files. So I thought I'd post the workaround for others benefit. Incidentally, I am following this up with our engineers here and if I find a fix I will update you all.

Go to Control Panel - Personalization

Choose the first Windows Colour and Appearance

Click the "Open Classic Appearance Properties for More Colour Options" at the bottom

Choose Windows Basic as colour scheme.

This seems to be a rare issue that does not affect all Vista users. But I hope it helps those that are affected. Incidentally I have a 32-bit Vista Enterprise SP1 laptop (Toshiba M400) with all Windows Updates applied to date.

HTH

M

Comments

  • Anonymous
    January 01, 2003
    Hello, I'm having this same issue on a Windows Server 2008 computer.  However, your workaround did not work for me.  Any other thoughts on how to resolve it?  FYI, I'm also running .NET Framework 3.5 with SP1, Visual Studio 2008 with SP1 and SQL Server 2008. Thanks. Deepak.

  • Anonymous
    January 01, 2003
    Deepak, Sorry I have no idea how to resolve this. It seems to be an isolated issue that affects a limited number of people. Personally, I have received a new laptop lenovo T61P on which I have Vista Enterprise x64 with SP1.  I also have .Net framework 3.5 with SP1 and Visual Studio 2008 SP1 installed. Luckily I have no issues with xps docs at the moment. If I find a fix I will post it. Although it currently a very low priority on my todo list. Good luck! M