*.DAT files?

I've got two questions about these:

1.) Is it possible to read and edit these files using C++. And does anyone have any example source code for doing this.

2.) Does anyone know a program that I can have a look at these files. As when I try to open the documents from Windows it just says I doont have a program that can open DAT files.

unfortunately the extention .dat is multi-formated... but if by coincidence you are using allegro and it's grabber utility, the grabber can read those packed files... if not, then ignore... :)

Forgive the thickness and the lack of computer and programming knowledge, but whats Allegro??

I'll try an explain better. I have got *.DAT files containing information that I would like to use in my program, but don't know if its possible.
Also is there a windows program for reading these files, because notepad won't.

*.DAT files can contain anything. You must know in which format the files are in order to read them.

How can I tell which format the are in? Is it possible to email someone a couple as attachments, you could use the email button on this BB to send me your email add. So they can have look and tell us. And then advise me if I can incoporiate these into my programming or look at the contents?

Thanks for all the help.

well, it's arbitrary... where did you recieve these files? then maybe we can help you with a format better...

They are *.DAT files of a footbal management game for the PC. They contain player names, data, etc..
I wold like to make a program that can read this data and then edit it so I can make it more upto date.

Then, you'll have to figure out how it works!

You'll need a hex editor to start with :)

Some data files (especially *.INI files) can be opened in Notepad for editing. Try that, you might have luck...

Already tried Word Pad, but the text appears as:
þþÿþÿþÿDavid¥QþÿþÿþÿÿÿCarlQþÿ...

When what I wanted was:
David
Carl

Salem, whats a hex editor and where can I get one?

A selection
http://directory.google.com/Top/Comp...s/Hex_Editors/

Try some of the download sites like www.download.com

> þþÿþÿþÿ
These will be integers - say a score, or a string length, or ....
Look at these using the hex editor, and with patience, you should be able to figure out what the file means.

At least it doesn't seem to be compressed or encrypted.

lol, well i must say that for this i am thankful for not applying the DIY method i usually flaunt being a dosfreak... :)