FTP batch job hangs 1

[Paulreg]

I am using Windows XP ftp in a batch job to copy files from a client's server across the web. I can never be sure when new files will be available so the job is scheduled to run every 30 minutes. The files are small and take a few seconds to download. Problem is, every couple of days the ftp hangs after the mget command. There is no error message and the ftp window just stays open until someone notices we have not had any new files for a while. I then have to manually terminate the job and restart.
Any ideas please ...?

 

[JockMullin]

I assume you are using the Windows ftp client.

I have had similar problems on some ftp sites. It turns out they work much better in passive mode. However, I don't know any way to put the windows client into passive mode.

I have started using MoveItFreely - a freeware ftp client which is a drop-in replacement for the windows client with the same parameter and command syntax but some enhancements, including the passive command.

http://demos.stdnet.com/moveitfreely/

Jock

 

[Paulreg]

I have installed moveitfreely.
For some reason after connecting to the remote site, it enters passive mode and then ignores the rest of my script and times out.
Thanks
Paul

 

[JockMullin]

Hi, Paul
Well, that sounds like passive mode is inappropriate.
What happens if you use ftps without the passive command? Does the script run then?
I usually switch to passive just before gets or puts.

Jock

 

[Paulreg]

Hi Jock
Well, ftps works OK without the passive command.
BTW is there a way of switching to passive mid batch ?
I have been using the -a switch after ftps.
Thanks
Paul

 

[JockMullin]

Hi, Paul

In your command script, the command PASSIVE toggles passive mode. If you start fpts with no a switch it opens with passive off. A passive command turns it on, a subsequent one will turn it off again.

Jock

 

[Paulreg]

I added the PASSIVE command just before the mget but it still hung.
What I have noticed though is that the standard MS ftp seems to briefly pause at the mget command whereas the ftps without the PASSIVE command seems to run through a lot smoother.
I will try ftps without the PASSIVE command for a while and see what happens.
Thanks
Paul