01 October, 2011

cannot open flash files in SharePoint / cannot play .swf files in SharePoint


Flash files (.SWF extensions) are by default unblocked in SharePoint so it means we can store the flash files inside our document libraries. One of my users has opened a case with our team and asked for guidance as How to play the flash files in SharePoint.

One thing I need to clarify here is Flash is an independent application which is part of your desktop and we are using SharePoint to store them as a repository purpose. So when you play them then one of the most important thing to understand what exactly happens in the background.

1) Desktop installed flash application helps the stored file to start running.
2) Play the flash file in HTML mode (i.e. by means of explorer)

If your flash file is not running then the most probably the problem is with internet explorer or client/application is missing from the desktop.

One of the quickest workaround is- try to play that flash file by means of Mozilla or Google chrome. If it’s running then HTML mode is working fine in those browsers. If it’s not working in your Internet explorer then some add-on is missing.

Multiple ways that you can try-Please refer the following details:

If you don't have the full version of Flash installed on your PC, then you also don't have a standalone Flash player installed on your system and you aren't able to start SWF files through a double click on it.

The Flash Plugin in your Browser is not the same as the standalone Flash player, instead the Flash Plugin only allows you to play SWF files in your Browser.

But you're able to drag and drop SWF files onto your Browser to play them within the Browser, if you don't want to install the separate available standalone Flash Player.

1. Right Click on swf file. Select Open With. Chose IE7 and FF3, worked in both cases.
2. or, double click any swf file and then elect to "browse" and associate browser (FF or IE) with swf files so they open in browser.

There are several free standalone Flash players available. Just Google for them. The one I'm using currently is the Swiff player.

One more thing that i would like to notify-if you are using SharePoint Server 2010 then please refer the following details:
1.      Got to Central Admin
2.    Web Application Management
3.    Select your web app
4.    Select General Settings on the ribbon
5.     Set the Browser File Handling to Permissive

That's it-If you have any queries/questions regarding the mentioned information then please let me know.
I would be more than HAPPY 2 HELP U as well as RESOLVES UR issues, Thank you...

3 comments:

  1. I run a Training Web Portal where I host computer based training. I'm facing an issue with the training not running properly in sharepoint. The training hangs/freezes at different parts of the The training. I have made minor changes to the XML file which alleviates the long transition times but cannot solve the hang/freezing issues. The trainings are produced and distributed as CDs and work great from the CDs or when loaded to the desktop. The following file types are utilized in the training: .swf, .png, mp3 and .pdf.

    The problem occurs after loading the files to a sharepoint library and displaying training via a page viewer or content part viewer. The training hangs at various parts. I've reviewed the HTML and XML and cannot figure out the problem. I have my network personnel looking at the IE timeout rate but no luck so far. Any suggestions or thoughts on what could be the problem?

    ReplyDelete
  2. as per the mentioned information, it seems that this problem is machine specific rather than application specific.

    -Did you tried from another machine ? any results ?
    -Which version of IE you are using ? IE6| IE7 |IE8 ?
    -Which XML files you have modified ?please specify the exact location.
    -Did you tried resetting the IE settings back to manufacturer settings?

    Please check and let me know, Thank you

    ReplyDelete
  3. Thanks for getting back to me.

    My organization spans a large geographical area, runs IE7 on all systems, the issue occurs irregardless of the access location.

    The training is broken out by Chapters:
    -Top level folder containing the main html file and chapter folders
    -Chapter folders contain one subfolder with files and data xml's that sit outside the subfolder.
    -IE settings are locked down, cannot change them, that solutio would not be feasible for the number of systems we have.

    ReplyDelete

Your feedback is always appreciated. I will try to reply to your queries as soon as possible- Amol Ghuge

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