Many Family Tree Maker users appreciate the flexibility of accessing their genealogy projects from multiple computers. Cloud storage solutions like Dropbox seem ideal for this, but sometimes users encounter frustrating issues, especially with media file links. Let’s explore a common problem faced by Family Tree Maker users when using Dropbox and how to potentially resolve it.
One user described setting up Family Tree Maker (FTM) across two PCs, using Dropbox to sync their files. They stored their main FTM file and linked media in Dropbox, intending to seamlessly switch between computers. For a couple of months, this setup worked smoothly. However, after a PC and Dropbox update, they encountered a major setback: Family Tree Maker could no longer locate any of the linked media files, even though the files were still present in Dropbox folders. This issue occurred on both computers, indicating a synchronization or path recognition problem.
When attempting to relink media files on one computer, the changes were not reflected on the other, and vice versa, creating a frustrating loop. This user is understandably hesitant to relink thousands of media files without understanding the root cause and ensuring a stable long-term solution for using Family Tree Maker with Dropbox.
Several factors could contribute to this broken media link issue when using Family Tree Maker with Dropbox:
- Dropbox Update and File Path Changes: Dropbox updates can sometimes alter how files are synced or referenced. The “new location” message the user mentioned suggests a change in how Dropbox handles file paths, potentially disrupting the links Family Tree Maker relies on. Family Tree Maker stores file paths as part of its project file. If Dropbox changes the internal path structure, FTM will lose track of the media.
- Synchronization Delays and Conflicts: While Dropbox is generally reliable, sync delays can occur, especially with large files or slow internet connections. If Family Tree Maker opens the project file before Dropbox has fully synced the media files or path information across devices, it might misinterpret the file locations. Although the user mentions waiting for uploads, subtle sync issues can still arise.
- Family Tree Maker File Handling: Family Tree Maker, like other database-driven software, depends on consistent file paths. Accessing the FTM project file directly from Dropbox, while seemingly convenient, might introduce complexities compared to storing the project locally and using Dropbox solely for backup.
- Software Glitches: While less likely, temporary glitches in either Family Tree Maker or Dropbox after updates cannot be entirely ruled out.
To troubleshoot and potentially resolve this issue, consider the following steps:
- Verify Dropbox Sync Status: Ensure Dropbox is fully synced on both computers before opening Family Tree Maker. Check for any sync errors or pending uploads.
- Examine File Paths: Compare the file paths Family Tree Maker is trying to use for media files with the actual paths in your Dropbox folder on both PCs. Look for discrepancies that might have arisen after the updates. Family Tree Maker usually allows you to view broken media links and attempt to relink them, which can show the expected path.
- Relink Media Files in Batches: Instead of relinking everything at once, try relinking a small folder of media files on one computer and allow Dropbox sufficient time to sync before checking the second computer. This can help determine if the relinking process itself is being synced correctly.
- Consider Local Project File with Dropbox Backup: For more robust media link management, consider keeping the primary Family Tree Maker project file locally on one computer and using Dropbox for backup and syncing media files only. Accessing the project file directly from Dropbox across multiple machines might be more prone to path-related issues.
- Check Family Tree Maker and Dropbox Support: Consult the official support resources for both Family Tree Maker and Dropbox. They may have specific recommendations or known issues related to using these programs together, especially after updates. Search their help documentation for keywords like “sync,” “Dropbox,” “media links,” and “file paths.”
While relinking thousands of files is daunting, understanding the potential cause is the first step toward a lasting solution. By systematically checking sync status, file paths, and considering alternative workflows, you can hopefully restore your Family Tree Maker media links and confidently use Dropbox for your genealogy projects moving forward.
