>>Did this conversion program not try to use tables or DBC exclusive?
>
>No, I meant to mention that it occurs with NOUPDATE or SHARED in the USE for the table. I first coded NOUPDATE, then went to SHARED.
>I don't mention the .DBC, nor the word DATABASE in the code.
>
>I do have a command: "CREATE TABLE (m.xxx+"\SelListDec") FREE ;..." but I think the "FREE" should keep it away from any .DBC and the table that is in the .DBC is opened AFTER the statement above (so there should be no .DBC in play).
>
>thanks

But if the SET EXCLUSIVE is ON no metter HOW You open the tables the DBC is opened EXCLUSIVE

try it.
Start a VFP instance. in Command window

SET EXCLUSIVE ON
CLOSE ALL
USE SomeTableBelongingToDataBase SHARED NOUPDATE

Start other instance of VFP (don't close earlier one)

SET EXCLUSIVE OFF
CLOSE ALL
USE SomeOtherTableBelongingToDataBase SHARED NOUPDATE