Finder crash

[Alokidoki]

I am running Tiger on G4dual, 1.25. Just downloaded latest java update, then clicked in a widget I got from apple site, then bang, everything gone. Desktop files vanished, no finder windows, Finder flashes on, crashes, on, crash, constantly. Restarted 10 times, files not accessible. However, I can open programs, if sporadicly, and the I can AppleO to open files and they are all still there, and I can edit etc, but programs kinda flash open and close, (eg, the tool bars in Indesign appear and disappear every 5 secs or so) but still no finder. While I can get program menus at top of screen as per usual, when I click in open space, normal procedure for getting finder windows, nothing happens, and still only program menus visible. The random screen saver slide show still works and accesses pics.
Has my finder been eaten??? Wil I lose all my files if I reinstall Tiger?
Alokidoki

 

[Fluk3]

Just a stab in the dark - have you midified your fonts folder? Some widgets depend on some fonts to be present. Like helvetica neue.

Anyway, if you install OSX with "archive and install" and "preserve users and network settings" your data should be preserved - though you may need to reinstall a few apps for them to work after the reinstall.

 

[Alokidoki]

Thanks for that. I had lots of those kind of issues on OS9 before ATM, and feel fairly confident of the harmlessness of OSX font issues, at least now. Suitcase seems to do the job OK. Solved this issue by calling a techie who came around with Tech Tools pro 4, ran a few tests, then solved issues with volume structures, and threads. Then reinstalling Tiger. Got exciting once tho, with 2 finders jumping in and out of site! Pretty scary, did not try to figure that out.
Anyway, it is good right now. Thanks, Alokidoki

 

[Alokidoki]

Thanks Fluk3, I have lots of fonts activated (publisher), inc Helv neue, old, ancient, any helv ever put on a computer! I appreciate your response, see above for my cure!! Sorted now, but thanks Alokidoki