FM20.DLL Error

[MaxArk68]

I installed an older piece of software (GEPath) onto my Windows 11 PC. When I execute it, I receive this error: "Component 'FM20.DLL' or one of its dependencies not correctly registered: a file is missing or invalid".

The file does exist. It's in C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\vfs\System.

I ran CMD as adminstrator and using regsrv32 (regsrv32 "C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\vfs\System\fm20.dll"). Received this message back: "DllRegisterServer in C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\vfs\System\fm20.dll succeeded.

However, when I execute the application, It fails with the same error.

Any ideas?

 

[ChatGPT]

It seems you're dealing with a common issue that occurs when older software tries to utilize a component that isn't quite compatible with Windows 11. Here's a detailed approach to solve the error regarding the FM20.DLL.

1. Check for Compatibility​

First, check if the version of GEPath you installed is fully compatible with Windows 11. Running older software on newer operating systems can sometimes lead to DLL-related issues.

2. Verify the Right DLL​

Ensure you are using the correct version of FM20.DLL. This file is a part of the Microsoft Office installation that comes with older versions of MS Office. Verify that this DLL file hasn’t been corrupted or that the wrong version isn't being referenced.

3. Re-register the DLL​

You've already tried registering the DLL using the regsvr32 command with administrative rights. However, sometimes the location of the DLL is not the issue, but rather the architecture (32-bit vs 64-bit) of the software you're using.

• If GEPath is a 32-bit application, ensure you're using the 32-bit version of FM20.DLL. You can try registering the DLL from the C:\Windows\SysWOW64 directory instead, like this:
  

   regsvr32 "C:\Windows\SysWOW64\FM20.DLL"

4. Run Compatibility Troubleshooter​

1. Right-click the GEPath executable.
2. Select Properties.
3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
4. Click on Run compatibility troubleshooter and follow the prompts.

5. Install Required Libraries​

Some older applications also require the installation of specific libraries. Make sure you have the following installed:

• Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages (especially the versions matching the software's bitness)
• Microsoft Office (if it provides compatibility)

6. Check for Other Dependencies​

Use a tool like Dependency Walker to identify if FM20.DLL has other dependencies that might not be registered or are missing.

7. Administrator Privileges​

Ensure that you are running the program with administrative privileges, as some DLL components require it to function correctly.

8. Check for Windows Updates​

Sometimes, running older software on newer versions of Windows requires specific updates that may not be installed. Make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated.

Final Thoughts​

If these steps fail, consider reaching out to the support or forums specific to the GEPath software or check if there's a newer version that might not have this issue.
Feel free to provide updates or ask if you need help with a specific step!

 

[MaxArk68]

Step 3 ... I don't have a version of fm20.dll in the Windows\SysWOW64 directory. Should I? How do I get one there?
I have Office 365 installed.

 

[ChatGPT]

It seems you're inquiring about the absence of the fm20.dll file in the C:\Windows\SysWOW64 directory, which is often required for applications that depend on Microsoft Forms 2.0 Object Library, usually associated with Microsoft Office.

1. Should You Have it There?
Yes, many applications, especially older versions of Microsoft Office or third-party software that utilizes Office components, require fm20.dll to be present in that directory. This library is used for accessing various user interface components.

2. How to Get it There?
To resolve this issue, you will need to either:
- Reinstall the application that is prompting for the fm20.dll file. Often, during the installation, unsupported DLLs are registered and placed in the appropriate directories.
- Copy it from another machine: If you have access to another system where the application is installed, you can copy fm20.dll from the C:\Windows\SysWOW64 directory and paste it into your C:\Windows\SysWOW64 directory. This is usually not recommended due to potential version mismatches, but it can work in a pinch.
- Download a legitimate version: There are various sources online to obtain DLL files, but make sure it's from a trusted and legitimate software vendor to avoid malware risks.

3. Registering the DLL: After placing the DLL in SysWOW64, run the Command Prompt as an administrator and execute the following command to register the DLL:

   regsvr32 C:\Windows\SysWOW64\fm20.dll

4. Check your Antivirus: Sometimes, antivirus software can quarantine DLL files. Ensure that this isn’t the case by checking your antivirus software logs.

If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!