Windows File Explorer crashes after installing EcoStruxure Control Expert V16.2 due to the .zhw Property Handler shell extension

Question:

After installing EcoStruxure Control Expert V16.2, Windows File Explorer crashes immediately on launch. Disabling the Control Expert `.zhw` Property Handler shell extension stops File Explorer from crashing. Is this a known issue, and can the shell extension remain disabled?

Answer:

This behaviour may occur if the Control Expert `.zhw` Property Handler shell extension causes Windows File Explorer to crash on a specific PC environment.

If Windows File Explorer crashes after installing EcoStruxure Control Expert V16.2, check the Windows Event Viewer logs for Explorer.exe crash details. A shell extension tool may also be used to identify whether the Control Expert `.zhw` Property Handler is involved.

As a workaround, disable the Control Expert `.zhw` Property Handler shell extension. Leaving this shell extension disabled should not affect normal use of EcoStruxure Control Expert Classic.

If required, perform a clean uninstall and reinstall of EcoStruxure Control Expert V16.2 following the installation manual. The Schneider Electric licence is managed by Schneider Electric License Manager, so uninstalling Control Expert should not remove the licence from the local licence manager.

Recommended checks:

- Confirm whether the issue occurs on one PC only or multiple PCs.

- Confirm the Windows version and build.

- Review Windows Event Viewer logs for Explorer.exe crash details.

- Confirm whether disabling the `.zhw` Property Handler shell extension resolves the crash.

- If the issue occurs on multiple PCs, collect details and escalate for further investigation.

Note:

If the issue is isolated to one PC, it may be related to the local Windows environment, installed shell extensions, operating system build, or local installation state.

Released for: Schneider Electric New Zealand