Cab file location in Windows Vista

[myrampar]

Hello all,

I've got a new laptop running Windows Vista Ultimate and I would like to know where I can find the cab files after installing a program using the Windows Mobile Device Center.

For example, I just ran the installer (not .cab file) from Windows for Franson GPSGate using the WMDC. I was unable to install this app to my Verizon XV6700 due to some problem with the digital signature. It was already installed on my device but I was trying to update the app 'over the top' of the old one.

Since I always like to have the .cab file on my storage card, I looked in the Franson folder in Program Files and the .cab is not in there. I have hidden files/folder enabled and tried to browse the Documents and Settings\Username\Application Data\Microsoft\ActiveSync folder but don't see anything there either. It seems like this was the location in XP where I would find the files.

Actually, I wasn't able to even browse the Documents and Settings\My Username folder in Vista until I took ownership of the folder and all subfolders which was a pain.

Does anyone have some insight as to where these .cab files are extracted when installing apps within Vista?

Thanks in advance for any help!

[asims]

I stumbled across this post (http://www.ipaq.net/Articles/getTip.aspx?articleID=72) many moons ago and have never had a need to try it. Hopefully, it will help you.

Let us know!

[ctmagnus]

I've seen them end up in a subdirectory under "C:\Program Files\..." or even (although rare in Vista) in a subdirectory under "C:\Program Files\Microsoft ActiveSync". But some of the well-designed programs tend to leave their cab files in "C:\Windows\WindowsMobile\[ProgramName]\".

[myrampar]

Thanks ctmagnus,

I found the .cab file I was looking for in the C:\Windows\WindowsMobile\Program Name folder earlier today. It would be a whole lot easier if all software was available in .cab format.

I'll keep an eye on the other folders you mentioned also. :D

[asims]

I like your idea much better, ctmagnus. Thanks for posting it. I was able to go in and find mine under the Microsoft ActiveSync folder.