When opening by double clicking an Excel file or using a
Shortcut to an Excell file, Excel 2000 starts to open,
halts and displays an error message stating that the file
connot be found or one of its components. After clicking
ok, Excel finishes opening.

When opening Excel first and then opening a file, it has
no problems. So far I've done the following;
- reinstalled Excel 2000,
- re-createded the shortcuts,
- installed the latest server packs for Windows 98 and
Office 2000,
- run "excel /regedit, and
- ensured Tools/Options/General "ignore other applications
is checked.
but the problem persists.

No new software has been installed or downloads from the
internet (except email) have occured within 2-3 weeks
prior to the problem developing.

Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Gary