x4w — Frequently Asked Questions

What is x4w?

x4w is a developer tool provided as a DLL (Dynamic Link Library) that supports .NET technology. When referenced from within an application, x4w enables the application to open and restore Custom XML within files.

What do I get if I purchase x4w?

Two versions of x4w are available. The Evaluation package contains a sample application that allows you to test its basic functionality within Microsoft © Word. The Full Version includes a fully functional version of x4w as well as the sample application.

Included in the downloadable packages are:

  • The x4w.dll file
  • The x4w Developer Guide
  • A sample application (Sample x4w Project.zip)
  • A sample XML file and schema (readme.docx and readme.xsd)
  • Release notes (ReleaseNotes.html)
  • A readme file (readme.txt)

What are the system requirements?

  • Microsoft © Word 2007 with Service Pack 2 or Microsoft Word 2010
  • .NET Framework 3.5 or newer

What is the difference between the Evaluation and Full versions of x4w?

The Evaluation package (available for download here) contains a demo of the x4w.dll file, and inserts random content into documents. This is meant to demonstrate the functionality of x4w, and should not be used on important documents.

The Full Version of x4w is a DLL file that does not insert random content and can be used with production applications.

What are the system requirements?

  • Microsoft © Word 2007 with Service Pack 2 or Microsoft Word 2010
  • .NET Framework 3.5 or newer

What files are supported by x4w?

x4w is compatible with .docx files, pure XML files, and files that contain ISO 29500-compliant Custom XML. x4w is not compatible with .doc files that contain binary representations of XML.

What can I do with Custom XML .doc files from Word 2003?

Since x4w only works with Word 2007 and Word 2010, legacy .doc files must be migrated to the .docx format. To migrate a legacy .doc file:

  1. In Word 2007 or 2010, attach schema(s) to all legacy documents.
  2. Using Word 2007 or 2010, open the .doc document created in Word 2003. (When Word opens your legacy document it does not delete the Custom XML tags.)
  3. Save the document in .docx format.
The newly converted .docx file will then be compatible with x4w. Note that if the document is opened without x4w, all Custom XML tags will be lost.

What kind of support is available for x4w?

x4w is supplied as is. There is no support included with the purchase of the x4w. However, support can be purchased on a per-issue basis. To purchase support, click here.

Is x4w the right solution for me?

x4w is currently designed for developers that need its capabilities in custom applications. If you are questioning what a DLL file is, it is not likely the right product for you.

Please contact us with any questions on how x4w can help you solve your Custom XML situations within Word.

For more information on x4w, please contact i4i at xml@i4i.com.