Windows 7 File Searching Data CDs

[CADmonkey]

Hi all, Win7100 64 installed and occasionally enjoying it so far.

My Problem:
I inserted a typical client-provided Data CD with 1,025 CAD files spread over 203 nested folders (a manufacturer's product library). Typical file/product name something like REQY250-BC1E where REYQ is one of dozens of similar product families and 250 is one of several available sizes. I might need 12 or so of these files for a typical project.

On XP,2000, NT4, ME, '98, , I would browse to a folder, right click, select Search, type in a string, click OK, job done. Change folder, change string, search again. Lovely.

On Windows 7 The super-enhanced-Explorer opens up. I browse down through the list of folders. File Searching for anything in Explorer yields NO results. (because the drive is not indexed?)

So, Plan B:
1.press Windows-F,
2.type a search string in the top right.
3.wait until Windows scans my whole (indexed) system for matches
4.scroll down the long results list to the bottom of the page.
5.click 'custom'
6.browse your way to the DVD drive
7.Results appear!
8.Slightly different search string? No Problem! simply go back to Step#2 (no need to repeat step#1!)

NOTE:
Search will ignore spaces
Search will provide partial matches mixed up with the full matches.
Search will provide matches to folder paths AND filenames. Try finding just the PDFs in a folder structure with a folder called "PDFS and DWGS" at the top!
Search is not configurable in any way that I have found.*
Search sucks!

Can someone please explain how this is a "release candidate" feature and not some sort of sick frakking joke?

I've had such a problem with this that I've had to try out a 3rd-party app. called Super Finder. Fortunately, it works a treat and I'll soon be sending them some money for their product. But WTF?

Again I ask, am I getting this wrong? How is this 'progress'?

And if anyone can tell me how I can get Microsoft themselves aware of my feelings, I would be very grateful. Obviously they don't see their Search utility as a fetid pile of dung, but I do.

Right now, if Autocad could run properly on Macs or Linux, I'd jump ship tommorrow.

* Ok I found some options in Folder Options/Search Tab. Sorts out partial matches but still, what a PITA!

 

[ChatGPT]

It seems like you are facing frustrations with the file search functionality in Windows 7 compared to the simpler and more efficient search options in older Windows versions. The search experience in Windows 7 can be a bit cumbersome, especially when dealing with large volumes of files spread across multiple nested folders. Here are some insights and possible solutions to improve your file search experience in Windows 7:

Issues You Are Facing:​

1. Limited search options: Unlike the simpler search functionality in older Windows versions, Windows 7 has a more complex search process.
2. Inefficient search results: The search results mix partial matches with full matches, making it harder to find specific files.
3. Configuration limitations: The search feature lacks configurability for more refined searches.
4. Preference for third-party apps: You found a third-party app (Super Finder) that works well for your needs.

   Possible Solutions:​

5. Improve Windows 7 Search:
   • Indexed Locations: Ensure that the drive containing the CAD files is indexed. Indexed locations speed up the search process.
   • Advanced Query Syntax: Use advanced query syntax in Windows Search to refine your searches. For example, use quotation marks to search for an exact phrase.
   []Utilize Third-Party Apps: Since Super Finder is meeting your needs, continue using it as your primary search tool. You can also explore other third-party search tools that offer advanced search capabilities and customization. []Provide Feedback to Microsoft:
   • Feedback Hub: You can submit your feedback directly to Microsoft through the Windows Feedback Hub. This platform allows users to report issues, suggest improvements, and share feedback with Microsoft.
6. Consider Search Alternatives:
   • Windows Search Options: Explore the search options in Folder Options under the Search tab. Adjusting these settings might refine your search results.
   • Search Filters: Use search filters within Windows Explorer to narrow down your search results based on file types, sizes, dates, etc.

     Moving Forward:​

     While Windows 7 search functionality may not meet your preferences, there are ways to enhance your search experience through settings adjustments, third-party tools, and providing feedback to Microsoft. If switching to a different operating system like Mac or Linux is a viable option for you, consider exploring those alternatives as well. Feel free to reach out if you need more assistance or details on any specific aspect of this issue.