Hmmm....where is my file!?

[WhySoSerious]

Ok, i'm confused. When I download a file (example: AIM or take a screen capture with my iSight from iChat), the file says it d/loaded to my desktop, but i don't see it.

Upon further examination, via Spotlight, I find that the directory is "user/my home account/desktop"....yet i don't see it there?

What the heck?

So, now I have to go through Finder to located the file and delete it. What is going on? How do i resolve this to where i can either: A. see all my d/loaded files, or B. have the computer prompt me for a new save location???

thanks

 

[jczubach]

a) Ok, if it is downloading to your desktop, are you getting your open windows out of the way to have a looksee? Should be there?!?!?!? b)Safari preferences/general/save downloaded files to:/ create or pick a new folder/location. Try "right beside you, next to your coffee cup"

 

[Sherman Homan]

I have seen the Desktop not "refresh" immediately, but it sounds like your files never show up on the Desktop, is that true? Try setting the default download folder in Safari to your Documents folder. Download a file and see if that behaves correctly. If it does, then set it back to the Desktop.

 

[WhySoSerious]

a) Ok, if it is downloading to your desktop, are you getting your open windows out of the way to have a looksee? Should be there?!?!?!? b)Safari preferences/general/save downloaded files to:/ create or pick a new folder/location. Try "right beside you, next to your coffee cup"

wow, i never thought of moving my windows out of the way! seriously...is that the best advice you had to give?

Of course i moved the windows out of the way.

I have seen the Desktop not "refresh" immediately, but it sounds like your files never show up on the Desktop, is that true? Try setting the default download folder in Safari to your Documents folder. Download a file and see if that behaves correctly. If it does, then set it back to the Desktop.

but it's not just in Safari....it's also other items...like iChat. When you are on a chat and do a screen capture, it saves the file to the desktop......but when i look, it's not there. all indications point to it being there (spotlight; finder; etc), but the File just isn't visably there for me to click on.

 

[Sherman Homan]

Right, I am just trying to see if fixing one app gives some solution to the others.

 

[jczubach]

wow, i never thought of moving my windows out of the way! seriously...is that the best advice you had to give?

Of course i moved the windows out of the way.

Sorry man, but I've heard of crazier things. Like the lady who phoned dell tech support to complain that her coffee cup holder wasn't working anymore - turned out it was the CD tray... Did changing the safari preferences do anything? Have you tried as a different user?

 

[sammich]

When you start a download, it will appear in the 'Downloads' window that pops up. Click on the little magnifying glass icon to the right of the progress bar and it should show you where the file is.

If it isn't clear enough, command-click on the little icon at the top of the finder window (after clicking on the magnifying glass), and it'll show you the directory you're in.

 

[Ninden]

User terminal and see if the files are there. I think terminal usually starts out in your home directory, so you should be able to just go "cd desktop" :enter:
and then "ls" :enter:
and it should list what's on your desktop.

Honestly, I've had it happen to me too. Files that were saved to the desktop weren't there. Usually a reboot fixed the issue. I'd recommend just rebooting and see if they're there.