Open help file

[msretenovic]

Hi all,

I was hoping someone could tell me how to open help files with VBA. I have a routine that I would like to add a help file to, but I have NO idea how to do this.

TIA,

[Ed Jobe]

Do you mean that you've written a custom help file and want to navigate to a specific topic, i.e. context sensitive help?

[msretenovic]

Yes, I don't know how to do that and would appreciate a push.

Thank you,

[Ed Jobe]

The hardest part is setting up the helpfile properly. After you've done that, each control on the form has a property to set the file name and context id.
What are you using to create your help file? I'm only familiar with HTMLHelp Workshop.

[msretenovic]

Ed,

Yes, this is the program that I am using to compile the help files. It's the only one that I know of at this point.

What do I need to do to set the help file up?

[Ed Jobe]

There are 3 parts to make it work. First you have to create two new files using Notepad. They are C++ header files (*.h). One defines aliases, which is a tag mapping to an html file. The other maps topic ids, which you create, to the aliases. I'll attach an example of each. The second part is including them in your help project. In the project editor, DC on [Alias] or [Map] and add the files. The third part is, in vba, specify the help file and context id in the properties for controls on a form.

[msretenovic]

Ed,
I really appreciate your help, but I'm having a problem getting my button to call the help file . I have added the context ID to the HelpContextID property for the button. I have also added the file to the properties for the project. I have also placed the help file in my support path. But, when I click on the button, nothing happens.

I would appreciate some more guidance on this.

And thanks for the help you've given so far.

[Ed Jobe]

What environment are you working in?

[msretenovic]

Ed,
I am using AutoCAD 2005.

Thanks again for all of your help so far.

[Ed Jobe]

So, you mean vba in 05? not a VB exe or dll?