Simple batch file Win2000 problem w/copy command

[pbbriggs]

I apologize for this novice question, but I am brand new to batch files. I wrote a simple "copy" batch file to copy a file to another directory. It then deletes an existing file in the destination directory, and renames the newly-copied file (giving it the name of the file which was just deleted). Essentially, I am setting up some personnel to run a backup of a database.

The problem is, this batch file works fine on PCs running Windows 98, but will not run on PCs running Windows 2000. This is the batch file:

copy G:\Source\File.mdb G:\Destination
del G:\Destination\Backup.mdb
rename G:\Destination\File.mdb Backup.mdb

It is doing the "del" step but not the copy step. Did the copy command change somehow in Windows 2000? Also, what's strange is I don't get an error message. It appears to run, but then when I check for the copied file it is not present.

Thank you very much, and sorry for being such an amateur!

 

[mattjurado]

Since you're new, an important tip, when a script isn't working, open a command prompt, type each of the commands one at a time until it fails. When it does fail, you'll see the breakdown point, and what the error/problem is. Makes it easier to troubleshoot.

Try the xcopy command instead of copy by the way. And for help with any command type the command name /? for help.

i.e. xcopy /?

Matt J.

 

[Marcs41]

Copy /-Y G:\Source\File.mdb G:\Destination\Backup.mdb

Will do the exact same thing, but faster

Marc
_{If 'something' 'somewhere' gives 'some' error, expect random guesses or no replies at all. Please specify details.
Free Tip: The F1 Key does NOT destroy your PC!}

 

[pbbriggs]

Thanks, Marc and Matt! In the process of using Matt's help, I had discovered the /Y and /-Y option, which is great. I have also changed it to xcopy and it seems to be working fine now.
One more thing... Even though I am using a file extension on the destination, it's prompting me to specify whether the target is a directory or a file, and I have to type "f" or "d". Is there a way to automatically answer this question (so the user won't get the prompt)?
Thanks again!
Patricia

 

[pbbriggs]

Never mind about the automatic prompt thing. I found the /i switch.

Thanks, guys, for your helpful advice and info.

 

[bcastner]

If you are going to do this on a regular basis, please spend a little time looking on this site for suggestions and download this freeware tool:

http://www.xxcopy.com/#toc

With a little time on spent on the various switches available, you can do incredible things with this freeware tool.

Recommended highly.
Best,
Bill