Is there any difference between "moving files" using Windows XP 'Move' function and cutting and pasting them? Obviously the technique is different but I have noticed when I go to move a file and it comes up with that error "cannot move file blah because it is in use by another application", I can cut and paste the file fine.

Am I compromising data by doing this or is it essentially the same thing?

CUT? and paste? or copy and paste?

Coz technically all its (or should be) doing is calling the same functionalitty but getting the source and destination information a different way/

By 'move' do you mean drag and drop?

If so it might fail because you're click-holding the file, possibly triggering whatever preview function explorer might been currently undertaking, causing a file lock. Happens frequently with video files ...

If not, ignore the above.

I read somewhere that the 'move' function is just copy combined with paste and delete.

The part that windows is complaining about is the delete part. It cannot delete it while it's using it, so it does nothing.

So if you just do the copy and paste - it should work.

by files, do u mean a file cabinet?

Ok well I normally cut and paste when I can't "move" a file.
The "move" process you describe Idol ie the combining of several functions, may be why I am getting that error - although it seems to do it at random eg. I will be moving a bunch of vids and one will stick.

I normally cut and paste cos I am too lazy to go back and delete.
I have been backing up about 300 gig worth of stuff in the last week so I am a cut'n'paste veteran now.

I guess you could use Windows explorer and drag and drop but I find this really fiddly for some reason. I think it's to do with having to pre-open folders or else hover over them to get to the folder you want.

Exciting stuff.

just reread it, well if the cut function works, that kinda s***s on my theory

I guess you could just compare the file size of the original file and the final file to see if it's copied properly. If the video plays then that pretty much confirms it.

teracopy

Robocopy
Its part of the Windows Server 2003 resource kit (kit installs to XP etc)

I use it for any serious file movering.

Yup, Robocopy is awesome especially when you're moving very large amounts of data.

get the file unlocker from hirens boot cd

also teracopy ftw

pathsync

I read somewhere that the 'move' function is just copy combined with paste and delete.

move's really just a rename unless it's going to another disk

+1 for the thumbnail theory