Dreamweaver FTP and adding files?

Can I add pdf files to the server through DW?

[opulyst]

I have set DW up so that when I open it, it logs into the server and pulls the files from the server for editing. This way I can make my changes, click save and then it will update the server.

But I cannot add pdf files in this way. I tried dragging them into the Files box under the folder that I wanted, but it did not work. Does anybody know how I could do this without changing the setup?

[limbo]

Sounds odd (what version of DW are you using?)

I have no problem adding PDF's (or anyfile for that matter) via dreamweaver FTP. It doesn't sound like the method you describe for server connection might hamper it either. Have you tried just selcting the pdf's and clicking the blue 'put file' arrow?

Do you have any error messages?

[bumpaw]

limbo, Let's say that PDF was on your desktop and you wanted to ftp with DW to your remote site. How would you do it? I have to add it to my local version of the site first. My other ftp utilities will allow you to explore anywhere on the local PC and once found upload it.

In other words when local and remote files are displayed side by side thats all I can transfer.

[limbo]

For me that is not really a problem

Why would you want to add a file that sits outside of your local site? Would that not be risky? Paths could get confused, files could get isolated, orphaned or lost and everything would be littered around the place. DW Probably forced this because of the .dwt and .lbi file types that need an all seeing eye for them to work. I think keeping everything in one local folder is a good idea. Open the pdf save a copy to your local site and upload. I guess I am used to DW (use cute this way too).

[opulyst]

The thing is that I do not have it set up to open to a local site. When DW MX opens, it opens to the server. So when I do to open index.htm, it opens the server version of index.htm.

I set it up this way because my sister will update things from time to time and she still hasn't grasped that you have to upload after saving. She thinks that once you save, the new saved changes should publish automatically. By having the site open to the server site through ftp, I can do that.

I just can't figure out how to add other files without creating them through DW.

[bumpaw]

Why would you want to add a file that sits outside of your local site?

If I was working on a client site probably never, but I create all kinds of quick sites that are for learning new things. They may live a while or die the next day. They may be created in Homesite and then bounced to Dreamweaver or the other way around. If I happen to have Dreamweaver open with the site it would be nice to have the flexibility of WS_FTP Pro.

Mainly I was just afraid that there was a capability in DW that I was missing out on.

[bumpaw]

I just can't figure out how to add other files without creating them through DW.

What about creating a local version of your site from the server and refreshing from the server each time you work on it. Then you could add your file to the local version and easily upload it. I would never feel comfortable without having the files on my PC also.

[limbo]

I would never feel comfortable without having the files on my PC also

Totally agree, local copy at the very minimum!

We keep 4 copies - 1 local, 1 remote, 1 on disc. Then everything on the servers it backed up on tape too. In my last place we had a disaster and lost 3 months hard work to exploding plumbing - the backup and PC's were in the same room - (doh!)

[opulyst]

Ok, I will do that.

Can I set it up so that even though I am editing the local copy, once it is saved it uploads to the server automatically?

[limbo]

Can I set it up so that even though I am editing the local copy, once it is saved it uploads to the server automatically?

Yup, go into your define sites dialogue box:

Choose your site

> Edit
> Select > Remote Info
> Tick the "Automatically upload files to server on save" box

(you asked for it - personally I think this is a little risky ;) )